Rain Havoc in Gujarat: 14 Killed, 16 Hurt, IMD Issues 3-Day Red Alert

Unseasonal thunderstorms and heavy rainfall battered Gujarat, claiming 14 lives and injuring 16 across multiple districts, as reported by News Agencies. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a three-day red alert, effective until May 9, forecasting intense showers, thunderstorms, and winds up to 60 kmph in regions like Surat, Jamnagar, Dwarka, and Kutch. The deluge, driven by a cyclonic circulation over northwest Madhya Pradesh, has caused widespread flooding, infrastructure damage, and power outages, particularly in urban centers like Ahmedabad and Vadodara, leaving residents and authorities on high alert.

Widespread Impact and Casualties
The storms have wreaked havoc, with fatalities reported due to lightning strikes, collapsing structures, and drowning in waterlogged areas. Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Saurashtra faced severe disruptions, with roads inundated and train services, including the Ahmedabad-Vadodara Intercity Express, halted. In Morbi, a tragic incident saw a tractor-trolley swept away, reminiscent of a 2024 event. The 16 injuries, primarily from falling debris and accidents, have strained local hospitals. Rural areas like Amreli and Veraval report crop damage, threatening farmers’ livelihoods, while urban flooding has paralyzed daily life in Gandhinagar and Bhuj, with schools closed and traffic stalled.

Government and Rescue Efforts
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has mobilized the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) for rescue operations, evacuating hundreds from low-lying areas in Valsad and Navsari. Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured central aid, while Home Minister Amit Shah reviewed preparedness with Patel. The state emergency control center is coordinating relief, providing food and shelter to displaced residents. Authorities have urged people to avoid travel and stay indoors, with emergency services on standby to address further incidents as the red alert persists.

Preparing for Ongoing Challenges
The IMD’s red alert warns of continued heavy rainfall, raising fears of flash floods in Kutch and Dwarka. The 2024 Gujarat floods, which killed 28, loom large, prompting calls for better drainage and disaster preparedness. Residents are advised to monitor updates, secure homes, and avoid waterlogged areas. As Gujarat battles this crisis, the focus is on saving lives and mitigating damage, with the government facing pressure to address infrastructure gaps to prevent future tragedies amid unpredictable weather patterns.