Gujarat Faces Severe Flooding as Heavy Rains Wreak Havoc

New Delhi: In a devastating turn of events, southern and central Gujarat are grappling with severe flooding caused by relentless heavy rains. Torrential downpours that began early this morning have resulted in swollen rivers and overflowing dams, submerging low-lying areas and isolating numerous villages in the affected districts, including Surat, Bharuch, and Anand.

The unprecedented rainfall has led authorities to declare holidays for schools and colleges in several affected regions. Rescue operations are in full swing, with teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and local fire brigades working tirelessly to aid those trapped in flooded areas. In Anand district’s Borsad taluka, where 314 mm of rainfall was recorded within just four hours, approximately 400 people have been relocated to safety due to severe flooding.

Surat district has experienced particularly severe impacts, with rainfall exceeding 200 mm in areas like Umarpada, Palsana, Kamrej, and Bardoli over the past 24 hours. The city of Surat itself has been inundated, prompting the relocation of around 200 residents. Additionally, 132 roads in Surat district have been blocked as a precautionary measure.

The situation in Bharuch district has also been critical, with heavy rains affecting talukas such as Hansot, Jhagadia, Valia, Netrang, and Ankleshwar. The local administration has declared a holiday for educational institutions and is closely monitoring waterlogging in Bharuch city to manage the situation.

In Navsari, the rising waters of the Purna river have led to the evacuation of around 150 individuals from Navsari and Bilimora. Rivers like Kaveri and Ambika are nearing dangerous levels, further complicating transportation as connecting rivers overflow.

The heavy rains have also disrupted rail services significantly. Eleven long-distance express trains have been regulated, and four local passenger trains have been cancelled due to rising water levels affecting railway bridges in the Vadodara division. Train services on the down line have since been restored.

Authorities have issued a red alert for Vadodara city, as the Vishwamitri river has risen to 18.3 feet, with a flood warning in effect if it reaches 22 feet. The situation remains critical as rescue operations continue and communities prepare for further developments.