AHMEDABAD: Heavy monsoon rains battered Gujarat over the past week, causing widespread destruction and displacing thousands of residents across the state. The relentless downpour has led to severe flooding in several districts, with reports of submerged homes, disrupted transportation, and a growing humanitarian crisis.

As a result of the relentless deluge, cities like Ahmedabad, Surat, and Rajkot have experienced significant waterlogging, making roads impassable and halting daily life for millions. So far the state has received 882 mm of rainfall since June 1 and although rainfall subsided in the weekend, many towns and villages continue to face waterlogging due to swollen rivers.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued red alerts for multiple regions, forecasting continued heavy rainfall, particularly in coastal and low-lying areas and on Friday warned that a deep depression, which brought heavy rains and floods to the coastal state, has intensified into “Cyclone Asna” near the coast of Kutch and adjacent areas of Pakistan.

Although local reports estimated that over 100,000 people had been forced to evacuate their homes, seeking refuge in temporary shelters set up by the government, official figures up to Friday put the displaced at about 24,000 with the number of fatalities due to rain-related incidents in Gujarat risen to about 28 in recent days. Rescue agencies both the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and state agencies have been on their toes and a total of 17,800 people have been evacuated from areas severely affected by the flooding.

“Never have we seen such alarming rainfall in such a short span,” stated a spokesperson from the Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority (GSDMA). “We are coordinating with various agencies to ensure that help reaches those in need as quickly as possible.” Emergency services are working tirelessly to provide food, medical aid, and essential supplies to those affected. Rescue operations have been underway, with teams deployed to reach stranded individuals and families in remote areas. Additionally, disruptions to public transportation have been significant, with train services suspended and major highways blocked due to flooding. The state government is appealing to citizens to remain indoors and avoid flooded areas for their safety.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is keeping a close eye on the flooding in the state and has had a telephone conversation with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel assuring him of full support from the central government as the state battles continuous heavy rainfall. As the rainfall continues and the situation evolves, authorities are urging residents to stay vigilant and heed warnings. The government is also assessing the damage to infrastructure and homes, with promises to support rebuilding efforts once the waters recede.