As heavy monsoon rains pound Gujarat, the state government has ramped up its disaster preparedness, deploying 34 teams from the National and State Disaster Response Forces across vulnerable districts. With rainfall intensifying, two more teams remain on standby to address any escalation.
A high-level Weather Watch Group meeting at the State Emergency Operation Centre in Gandhinagar reviewed the ongoing situation and outlined a coordinated response. Officials emphasized 24/7 monitoring, prompt communication, and readiness for emergencies, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas.
The India Meteorological Department predicts continued moderate to heavy rainfall across South, Central, and Saurashtra Gujarat. In Surat, 66 mm of rainfall within six hours flooded neighborhoods like Katargam, Kapodra, Ved Road, and Puna Parvat Gam. Simada Creek overflowed, submerging areas such as Valamnagar and Shubham Park Society, with water levels reaching neck height.
Rescue operations sprang into action, deploying boats and tractors to evacuate residents. Waterlogging around Sarthana Police Station remained severe, and key roads like Kangaroo Circle to Godadara became impassable, disrupting daily life.
Sub-Divisional Magistrate Jigna Parmar reported over 100 mm of rain in several parts of Surat and confirmed that two state highways and multiple housing complexes had been affected. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported.
Surrounding districts also faced intense downpours: Bardoli (124 mm), Vyara (110 mm), Songadh (105 mm), and Vapi in Valsad (130 mm). The Narmada district recorded the highest rainfall with Nandod receiving 180 mm and Tilakwada 165 mm.