Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel Leads Gujarat's Response to Heavy Rains and Floods

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel reviewed preparedness for heavy rains and potential storms at Gandhinagar's State Emergency Operation Center. Immediate instructions for evacuations were issued, significant decisions were taken, and relief operations commenced. The Indian Air Force provided crucial aid, while Patel visited affected regions for firsthand assessments and review meetings.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel arrived at the Gandhinagar State Emergency Operation Center on Thursday from Vadodara, following forecasts of heavy rains and potential storms. Upon arrival, Patel assessed the system's preparedness for the natural calamity via a video conference with the District Collector.

Patel issued immediate instructions to evacuate vulnerable areas to safeguard residents from the impending calamity. Chief Secretary Rajkumar and other high-ranking officials attended the meeting.

In Vadodara, Gujarat Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi stated that Patel met with residents, inspected the city, and held meetings with local representatives and administrative departments, leading to crucial decisions. Notably, Patel approved the Rs 1,200 crore Vishwamitra River Revival and Redevelopment Project and called upon thousands of workers for area clean-ups.

Sanghavi added that Patel ensured the restoration of electricity and ordered a survey to assess losses for finalizing a relief package. The state government has commenced these tasks under the Chief Minister's directives.

Earlier today, the Indian Air Force began relief operations in flood-hit cities. Transport aircraft delivered relief materials to nearby airfields, and helicopters like Chetaks and Cheetahs were positioned for further operations.

MI-17 helicopters airdropped essentials to stranded residents in Jamnagar and Vadodara. Over the past three days, the IAF airlifted 18 people and dropped 3,500 supply packs.

On Thursday, Patel visited the Devbhumi Dwarka district to review relief efforts following heavy rainfall. Khambhaliya recorded the highest rainfall in the state over the past five days, with 944 mm.

In Khambhaliya, Patel gathered firsthand information about the rainfall's impact and guided relief operations. Supported by the NDRF, SDRF, Army, and Coast Guard, he checked on residents in affected areas like Ramnagar and Kanzar Checkpost and reviewed arrangements for those impacted.

A review meeting at the Dwarka Collector's office, with Chief Secretary Raj Kumar present, provided Patel with detailed updates on damages, evacuations, and rescue operations in the district. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)