Ahmedabad is currently facing heavy rainfall, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a red alert for Gujarat, marking it as a flash flood risk zone. The city has experienced significant waterlogging, and authorities have launched extensive rescue operations. Residents are advised to stay indoors and stay informed about weather updates. This severe weather is part of an ongoing downpour across Gujarat, driven by a deep depression moving from east Rajasthan towards the Saurashtra region. The IMD predicts the rain will persist for the next two to three days, bringing heavy to extremely heavy rainfall. Since August 24, Gujarat has already seen substantial waterlogging, with reports of flooding in many areas.
The rainfall has caused widespread disruptions across Ahmedabad, particularly in low-lying areas. On Monday, the city recorded 10 cm of rain within 12 hours. Across Gujarat, 244 talukas in 33 districts have been affected, with Baroda receiving the highest rainfall at 26 cm in 24 hours. This weather has led to the activation of rescue efforts by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF). Over 17,000 people have been evacuated, and more than 1,600 individuals rescued. In Bharuch, authorities relocated 280 people after 4 lakh cusecs of water were released into the Narmada River, raising concerns over flooding.
Gujarat’s Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel held a high-level meeting to coordinate efforts with district officials, municipal commissioners, and other authorities. The primary focus is on preventing loss of life and property, with rescue operations ongoing in the worst-hit areas. The Gujarat government has also closed primary schools as a precautionary measure. The IMD has warned of potential traffic disruptions, infrastructure damage, and further waterlogging, advising residents to remain indoors and avoid water bodies. Fishermen have been cautioned against venturing out due to rough seas, and Union Home Minister Amit Shah has offered federal assistance.
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