Heavy Rains Lash Gujarat, Claim 5 Lives in Surat
Gujarat has been battered by relentless heavy rains over the past 48 hours, leading to severe flooding in several districts. The worst-hit city is Surat, where five people have died and more than 2,000 residents have been evacuated from low-lying areas. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for the region, predicting more downpours in the coming days.
The deceased include two children and three adults, who drowned or were swept away by floodwaters. Rescue operations are underway with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) deployed to assist affected communities.
Surat Worst Affected; Waterlogging Paralyzes City
Surat, a major industrial and commercial hub, has witnessed waist-deep water in many localities. The overflowing Tapi River has exacerbated the situation, inundating areas such as Varachha, Katargam, and Udhna. Traffic movement has been severely disrupted, with many roads submerged and vehicles stranded. Schools and colleges have been shut as a precautionary measure.
According to the Surat Municipal Corporation, over 2,000 people have been moved to 15 relief camps set up across the city. Food, drinking water, and medical supplies are being provided to the evacuees. Local authorities have also deployed boats for rescue operations in the worst-affected neighborhoods.
Other Districts Also Face Flood Threat
Apart from Surat, districts such as Navsari, Valsad, and Bharuch have also received heavy rainfall, leading to rising water levels in rivers and dams. The Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada River has been releasing excess water, prompting warnings for downstream villages. The state government has alerted district collectors to remain vigilant and prepare for possible evacuations.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has reviewed the situation and instructed officials to ensure speedy relief and rescue operations. He also announced an ex-gratia compensation of Rs 4 lakh each to the families of the deceased.
IMD Forecasts More Rain; Residents Advised to Stay Indoors
The IMD has forecast continued heavy to very heavy rainfall in south Gujarat and Saurashtra regions over the next 24 hours. The monsoon trough has become active, and a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal is contributing to the intense precipitation. Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors until the situation improves.
Meteorologists warn that the flood situation could worsen if the rains persist. The state government has set up control rooms in affected districts to coordinate relief efforts and provide real-time updates to the public.
