SDRF Rescues Over 50 As Heavy Rains Flood Dhamtari District

Over 50 individuals have been rescued by the State Disaster Relief Force (SDRF) amid severe flooding in Chhattisgarh's Dhamtari district. Continuous rains have led to increased water levels in major dams, prompting the release of water and subsequent flooding. Authorities are on alert as rescue operations continue.

The State Disaster Relief Force (SDRF) team has successfully rescued over 50 individuals trapped by overflowing waters from the Shivnath River. The flooding results from significant waterlogging in reservoir catchment areas, which compelled the release of water from multiple reservoirs.

Chhattisgarh, particularly Dhamtari district, has been grappling with continuous downpours since Monday. This unrelenting rain has ushered a substantial inflow of water into the district's four primary dams: Gangrel, Madam Silli, Dudhwa, and Saudhur. As a result, Gangrel Dam, the second largest in Chhattisgarh, has reached its full capacity.

Bhupendra Savnani, SDO of the Water Resources Department, commented, "To manage the excess water, the gates of all four dams have been opened, releasing water into the Mahanadi River. Gangrel Dam, which holds 32 TMC of water, has had nine gates opened, releasing 25,000 cusecs of water." The district administration is making announcements to alert residents in the coastal areas. Last week, heavy rains had already isolated several villages in Sukma district, disrupting essential services and access to the district headquarters.

Villagers faced significant challenges in securing the help they needed. Security personnel stationed nearby are working diligently to ensure safety and provide necessary aid. CAPF soldiers have been instrumental in helping villagers traverse a flooded stream near Nagaram in the Chintalnar police station jurisdiction, highlighting their critical role in mitigating the impact of these severe weather conditions.

(With inputs from agencies.)