Kumari Selja Alleges Monsoon Exposed Haryana Government’s Preparedness, Seeks Accountability Over Flooding and Water Crisis

Congress MP says delayed desilting, inadequate drainage maintenance and poor pre-monsoon planning have left parts of the state grappling with waterlogging while others continue to face drought-like conditions

Chandigarh | Pen of Democracy News Desk

Congress MP from Sirsa and former Union Minister Kumari Selja  alleged that the first spell of the monsoon had exposed what she described as the Haryana Government’s inadequate pre-monsoon preparedness, saying the situation reflected administrative lapses rather than an unforeseen natural event. In a statement, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) member said that government departments are routinely instructed to complete the desilting of drains, cleaning of roadside channels, strengthening of embankments and maintenance of drainage infrastructure before the onset of the monsoon. However, she alleged that these works were either delayed or inadequately executed this year. Selja said the state was witnessing two contrasting situations simultaneously, with several regions continuing to experience drought-like conditions and drinking water shortages, while others were facing waterlogging and flood-like conditions following moderate rainfall. “If pre-monsoon desilting, drain maintenance, removal of encroachments and strengthening of embankments had been completed on time, residents would not have faced such widespread disruption after the season’s first rains,” she said. The Congress leader questioned the utilisation of public funds allocated annually for monsoon preparedness, alleging that despite significant expenditure, the expected improvements were not visible on the ground. She said waterlogging had disrupted normal life in several towns and villages, affecting commuters, traders, farmers and students. According to Selja, damaged roads, traffic disruptions and poor drainage have added to public inconvenience, while farmers in areas receiving inadequate rainfall continue to face irrigation and drinking water concerns. Calling for greater administrative accountability, Selja said the government should move beyond official claims and ensure effective implementation of infrastructure maintenance before the monsoon each year. She described monsoon preparedness as a predictable administrative responsibility that requires timely planning and execution. The Congress MP demanded an independent review of pre-monsoon preparedness across Haryana, immediate completion of pending drainage, desilting and repair works, and accountability for officials found responsible for alleged negligence. She said the Congress would continue to raise issues affecting the public and seek timely corrective action from the government.

Selja Cites Yale Environmental Index, Calls for Stronger Climate and Pollution Policies

In a separate statement, Selja expressed concern over India’s ranking of 176th among 177 countries in the 2026 Environmental Performance Index (EPI) released by Yale University. She said the report should be viewed as an opportunity for policy reforms rather than political debate. She stressed the need for stronger measures to improve air and water quality, conserve water resources, protect biodiversity and strengthen pollution control mechanisms through effective policy implementation. Referring to growing concerns over air pollution, contaminated water sources, shrinking green cover and climate change, Selja urged both the Central and Haryana governments to adopt a time-bound environmental action plan aimed at improving ecological sustainability as well as citizens’ quality of life.