Vadodara Residents Affected by Heavy Rains: Relief Efforts Underway

Severe Flooding in Vadodara

In Vadodara, continuous heavy rainfall over the last three days has caused the Vishwamitri River to swell, leading to significant flooding. This situation has rendered the main road to Koteshwar, Kansa Residency, and Samridhi Residency in the Vadsar area impassable. Despite the Municipal Commissioner's request for residents to evacuate to safer areas, many have chosen to remain in their homes.

Local Authorities Respond

Ketan Patel, a Municipal Councillor, reported, "Vadsar village, situated along the Vishwamitri River, is currently inundated. Approximately 1,000 individuals are stranded, and we are distributing relief supplies. Last year, the water level reached 23 feet, causing extensive flooding, but this year, due to ongoing river management efforts, the impact is less severe. We are providing food packets to those affected."

Monitoring the Situation

Although the Vishwamitri River is currently below the danger threshold, authorities remain vigilant. Assistant Municipal Commissioner Sam Joshi stated, "In ward number 18 of Vadsar, waterlogging has been an issue since yesterday. We advised residents to relocate, but they declined. As the water level rose, we ensured that arrangements were in place to prevent panic, supplying food and water. Our team is available around the clock as per the Municipal Commissioner's directives."

Rescue Operations in Nearby Areas

In a related incident, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) successfully rescued nine individuals stranded in the flooded Sabarmati River near Danta in Banaskantha district. An official noted that the rescue operation was delayed due to the river's swift current. "We received reports of nine people trapped in Dhakad village and arrived at 8 PM. The rescue was challenging, but with the aid of a helicopter, we managed to save all nine individuals, including eight men and one woman," said PSI, SDRF, MP Rawal.

Rainfall Statistics

The current monsoon season has brought an average rainfall of 102.89% across Gujarat, with the southern region experiencing the highest at 107.99%. The State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) reported that in the last 24 hours, Kaprada received 10 inches of rain, while Poshina and Dharampur recorded 6 inches each. Several other areas also reported significant rainfall, contributing to the overall totals for the season.