Gujarat is facing the wrath of nature these days. The continuous torrential rains for the last few days have created flood-like conditions in many areas of the state. Saurashtra and Kutch regions have been the worst affected, where rivers are in spate and roads are submerged in water.
Loss of life and property
So far 35 people have lost their lives in this natural disaster. The series of deaths started on Monday and is still going on. Many people have lost their lives due to collapse of walls, falling trees and drowning. The state government said that about 17,800 people have been evacuated from flood-affected areas.
Rescue operations continue
The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Army, Air Force and Indian Coast Guard personnel are engaged in rescuing people day and night. Stranded people are being evacuated with the help of helicopters. Many people have been airlifted from Shumsar village in Devbhoomi Dwarka district.
Weather Department’s warning
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert in Saurashtra and Kutch region for Thursday. The department says that heavy to very heavy rains may occur in these areas. Heavy rains are also expected in many districts on Friday.
Damage to infrastructure
Due to heavy rains, the infrastructure of the state has also suffered a lot. A wall of Rajkot International Airport collapsed on Thursday morning. Many roads and railway lines are submerged in water, badly affecting traffic. Many trains have been canceled or their routes have been changed.
Prime Minister’s concern
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday spoke to Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel over the phone to take stock of the situation. Chief Minister Patel said after a review meeting that the cleaning campaign will be started as soon as the flood water recedes. There is no possibility of rain stopping yet. In such a situation, there are many challenges before the state government. The risk of waterborne and mosquito-borne diseases has increased in the flood-affected areas. The health department has been alerted. Also, delivering relief material to the stranded people is also a big challenge.
The Gujarat government appeal
The Gujarat government has appealed to the people not to panic and be cautious. Seek help immediately if needed. A list of emergency numbers has been issued. People have been told not to pay attention to rumors on social media and trust only official information.
Gujarat is currently facing a major natural disaster. However, every possible effort is being made by the state and central government. It is hoped that the situation will return to normal soon and people will be able to return to their homes. But learning from this disaster, there is a need to prepare better to deal with such situations in the future.
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