In Gujarat, heavy rains have caused severe flooding, forcing people to leave their homes. The floods have become so extreme that crocodiles are now invading residential areas. Videos on social media show crocodiles either entering homes or resting on rooftops, posing a threat to residents. The heavy rainfall has also increased the sea levels, leading to warnings for fishermen to stay away from the water. The weather department predicts that Gujarat will continue to experience heavy rain for the next two days.
Flood-Related Deaths and Displacement
In the latest flood-related incidents, 19 more people have died, raising the total number of deaths in the past three days to 26. Some areas have seen heavy rainfall for four consecutive days. In flood-affected areas, 17,800 people have been evacuated to safety.
Tractor-Trolley Incident
Seven people who went missing when a tractor-trolley was swept away by floodwaters on a bridge in Halvad Taluka, Morbi district, have been found dead. The bridge was submerged, causing the vehicle to be carried away.
Flood Impact in Vadodara
Even though the rain has stopped in Vadodara, the Vishwamitri River has breached its banks, flooding residential areas. Buildings, roads, and vehicles are submerged.
Prime Minister’s Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spoken with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel to review the situation and assured that the central government will provide all possible help. Heavy rainfalls between 50 mm and 200 mm have been recorded in various districts, with Devbhumi Dwarka receiving the highest at 185 mm.
Rescue Operations
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), and army units have been deployed to rescue people stranded in Vadodara. Over 5,000 people have been evacuated, and 1,200 more have been rescued. Additional rescue teams and boats are being sent to assist.
Chief Minister’s Orders
Chief Minister Patel has instructed officials to deploy cleaning equipment and disinfectant sprays in Vadodara once floodwaters recede. Teams from Ahmedabad, Surat, Bharuch, and Anand municipalities will assist in cleaning. He also ordered the deployment of five additional NDRF teams and four army units to support rescue and relief efforts. Extra rescue boats from Ahmedabad and Surat are also being sent to the affected areas.
