Gujarat Rains: 7 Dead, Over 6K Relocated From Flooded Areas; Schools Shut | Details

Dwarka: Heavy rains continue to lash Gujarat causing severe waterlogging in several areas across the state. The heavy rains resulted in the deaths of seven and several other people missing, prompting flood situations and forcing hundreds to evacuate. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a 'red' alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in multiple districts. Over 6,000 persons have been relocated to safer places as water levels in dams and rivers rose amid incessant rainfall, officials said.

Due to a deep depression moving from east Rajasthan towards the Saurashtra region, the weather agency expected heavy rain to continue in the state till August 29, marking Gujarat a 'flash flood risk' zone.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is carrying out rescue operations in the affected areas after severe waterlogging has been reported since heavy rain showers.

Furthermore, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel's office announced that currently Valsad, Tapi, Navsari, Surat, Narmada, and Panchmahal were the 'worst-hit' districts. The chief minister held a high-level meeting at the State Emergency Operation Center in Gandhinagar with collectors, municipal commissioners and district officials to assess the situation.

"Hon'ble Union Home Minister Amitbhai Shah had a telephone conversation with me today to get the details of the situation caused by heavy rains in Gujarat. He has assured the necessary assistance, including sending more help from central forces for rescue relief and disaster management in the state if required," Patel said on X.

Several damages have been reported across the state including a bridge on National Highway 56 in Chhota Udepur, affecting vehicle movement.

Additionally, over 17,000 people have been relocated from flood-prone areas, with over 1,500 people rescued by NDRF.

Primary Schools Closed

As a red alert has been enforced in the state, the Gujarat education department announced a holiday for all the primary schools on Tuesday. However, this announcement is limited to primary schools only.