Gujarat's Heavy Rains: Major Rescue Operations and Financial Aid Initiatives

Gujarat experienced heavy rainfall from August 25-30. State authorities, including Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, coordinated large-scale rescue and relief efforts, relocating thousands. Financial aid was provided to families affected by fatalities and property damage. Rail and bus services were disrupted, and waterlogging affected several regions, including Gandhinagar.

Alok Pandey, Gujarat State Relief Commissioner, announced that the state experienced extremely heavy rainfall between August 25 and 30. The torrential rains led to a coordinated large-scale rescue and relief operation, with thousands being relocated to safer places. 'All districts received extremely heavy rainfall during this period. Currently, every region has surpassed 100% rainfall,' he told ANI, adding that Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel held multiple video conferences with district officials to minimize the loss of life and property.

Pandey revealed that the government provided Rs 4 lakh in assistance to the families of those who died in rain-related incidents. 'We provided Rs 4 lakh from state funds and SDRF grants to the families of the deceased. Various teams were immediately formed to survey household expenses, and funds were promptly distributed,' he explained.

He added that during the five days of intense rainfall, the NDRF, SDRF, Army, and Air Force conducted extensive rescue and relief operations using helicopters and other means. Heavy rains have significantly disrupted everyday life in the state, affecting rail and bus services, and causing severe waterlogging in regions like Gandhinagar, which disrupted traffic. In response, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel ordered district collectors to expedite recovery efforts and cash assistance distributions to affected families. The State Government is actively assisting those whose livelihoods and properties have been impacted by the adverse weather conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)