Severe floods have swept through Punjab, dealing a devastating blow to the state's already limited forest cover. Nearly 4,94,956 trees have been uprooted across approximately 776 hectares—marking the worst ecological damage the region has seen in nearly four decades. With forest cover standing at just 3.7% of its total 50.3 lakh hectares, the ecological balance is now under critical strain.
Punjab’s landscape, overwhelmingly dominated by agriculture, leaves scarce room for afforestation efforts. Around 83% of the land is under cultivation, squeezing out opportunities for expanding green zones. The flood-induced losses extend beyond natural cover: officials estimate the total damage to forest and wildlife infrastructure at over ₹360 lakh. This figure includes initial estimates of around ₹341 lakh in environmental impact, plus roughly ₹19 lakh in damage to ten departmental buildings.
The floodwaters have pulverized state-run afforestation projects, undoing years of environmental rehabilitation. With limited resilience built into ecological systems, the recovery could prove slow and costly. The state’s principal chief conservator of forests has called for a comprehensive restoration plan once waters recede and full damage is assessed.
Environmental experts warn that the floods have not just destroyed trees but also amplified Punjab’s ecological vulnerability. With one of the lowest forest densities in the country and heavy reliance on farmland, the state now faces a prolonged struggle to restore what was lost.
Moving forward, coordinated efforts will be essential. Replanting programs must be revitalized, and new strategies developed to strengthen flood resilience. Without rapid action, Punjab’s green deficit—which plays a critical role in regulating microclimates, preventing erosion, and supporting biodiversity—could deepen, leaving both rural and urban communities exposed to future environmental hazards.
