In Gujarat, relentless rainfall has led to a red alert being issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The state’s flood-like conditions have already claimed 16 lives within just two days. Thousands of residents have been forced to evacuate as heavy rains continue to wreak havoc across the region.
Deep Depression Intensifies
A deep depression over Saurashtra and Kachchh, located 50 km north-northwest of Bhuj, is expected to intensify and move towards the northeast Arabian Sea. This weather system is anticipated to bring “exceptionally heavy” rainfall, worsening the already critical situation in Gujarat. The IMD has warned of continuing heavy rains over the next few days.
Vadodara Underwater
Vadodara, a major city in Gujarat, is experiencing severe flooding. The Vishwamitri River, swollen to 37 feet, has exceeded danger levels. This, combined with heavy rains and the release of water from the Ajwa Dam, has submerged large areas of the city, with some parts under 12 feet of water. The local government has requested Army assistance for relief and rescue operations.
Emergency Response in Full Swing
In response to the crisis, over 5,000 residents have been evacuated from Vadodara, and nearly 1,200 people have been rescued from flooded areas. The state health minister, Rushikesh Patel, described the situation as “alarming” and has called for additional support from the Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) to expedite relief efforts.
Long-Term Solutions Being Considered
Amid the immediate response, the Gujarat government is exploring long-term solutions to manage the flooding. One proposal includes diverting water from the Ajwa Dam to the Narmada canal to prevent further overflow into the Vishwamitri River. This plan has been discussed with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel as part of ongoing efforts to address the flood crisis.
Impact on Daily Life
The heavy rains and resulting floods have disrupted daily life across Gujarat. Key areas in Vadodara, such as Siddharth Nagar, Akota, and Fatehgunj, are among the worst affected, with many residents struggling to cope with the challenging conditions. The authorities are working tirelessly to provide relief and restore normalcy to the affected regions.
Looking Ahead
As Gujarat continues to face heavy rainfall and flooding, the IMD’s red alert highlights the severity of the situation. The combined efforts of local authorities, the Army, and disaster response teams are crucial in managing the ongoing crisis and mitigating further damage.