Gujarat CM Reviews Relief Operations Amid Heavy Rains

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel reviewed state relief efforts following heavy rainfall, issuing instructions to ensure safety and prompt rescue. Key officials reported on relocations, rescue operations, and infrastructure impacts. The government has mobilized Army, NDRF, and SDRF teams for effective disaster management across affected regions.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel conducted a video conference from the State Emergency Operation Center (SEOC) in Gandhinagar on Tuesday to review relief and rescue efforts amid heavy rainfall across the state, according to an official press release.

The Chief Minister received detailed reports from district collectors and municipal commissioners on the relocation of residents to safer areas, ongoing rescue operations, availability of essential supplies, and arrangements for relief kitchens. The meeting was attended by senior officials from departments including Revenue, Energy, Health, Water Supply, and Roads and Buildings.

As of 10 AM on Tuesday, the state had received 99.66% of its seasonal rainfall, with varying percentages reported across regions. In the past 24 hours, 251 talukas across 33 districts recorded significant rainfall, leading to the overflow of 15 rivers, 21 lakes, and multiple reservoirs.

The Chief Minister issued strict instructions for district collectors to ensure that no one approaches the overflowing water bodies and to use police assistance for enforcement. He was informed that 206 reservoirs had received 72.33% of their water storage capacity, with several on high alert.

To bolster rescue and relief operations, the state government has deployed six Army units, 14 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams, and 22 State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams. The Navy and Coast Guard are also assisting in the efforts. A notable number of evacuations were carried out in Panchmahal district, supported by Air Force operations in Vadodara and Jamnagar.

Chief Minister Patel urged citizens to stay cautious and follow disaster management guidelines to ensure their safety. He emphasized avoidance of unnecessary outdoor activity and adherence to evacuation orders when issued. Assistance payments for the families of the seven individuals who died due to the heavy rainfall have been initiated.

Patel also directed immediate efforts to restore electricity and repair damaged infrastructure. The Chief Minister praised the swift response by district and urban administrations and stressed the importance of a 'zero casualty' approach in managing the disaster.

The state remains on high alert with anticipated heavy rainfall over the next few days. Coordination among district administrations, health departments, and armed forces continues to be a priority to mitigate risks and ensure public safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)