Surat Faces Worst Rainfall in 40 Years, Vehicles Float in Floods

Surat, Gujarat, is reeling under the impact of unprecedented rainfall, with 9.5 inches recorded in just 14 hours, marking the heaviest two-hour downpour in four decades. The deluge has submerged roads, stranded vehicles, and necessitated the rescue of 112 people. As the monsoon sweeps across 26 states, Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate has criticized the government’s preparedness, while flood threats loom large nationwide.

Unprecedented Rainfall Chaos

The torrential rains, which began Tuesday evening, transformed Surat’s streets into rivers, with vehicles floating helplessly in the floodwaters. Low-lying areas were the worst hit, with water levels rising rapidly, trapping residents and commuters. The 9.5-inch rainfall, particularly intense within a two-hour window, has been recorded as Surat’s most severe in 40 years, overwhelming the city’s drainage systems and exposing infrastructure gaps in this “Smart City.”

Rescue and Relief Efforts

Local authorities and disaster response teams sprang into action, rescuing 112 people from flooded neighborhoods. Boats and emergency vehicles were deployed to evacuate stranded residents, while relief centers provided shelter and essentials. The focus remains on ensuring safety and preventing further loss of life as water levels slowly recede.

Heavy rains lash #Gujarat ‘s Surat again today Some villages submerged. Roads waterlogged, leaving drivers and pedestrians in deep distress. Several vehicles stranded as streets turn into streams.@santwana99 @NewIndianXpress @jayanthjacob pic.twitter.com/OqFIZ1AM1q

— Dilip Kshatriya (@Kshatriyadilip) June 24, 2025

Political Backlash

Congress leader Supriya Shinate highlighted the inadequate drainage systems and lack of proactive measures, calling for accountability. The government, in response, has assured swift action to address the crisis and support affected residents.

Nationwide Monsoon Threat

The monsoon’s advance across 26 states has heightened flood risks in multiple regions, with Surat’s plight serving as a stark warning. Urban centers and rural areas alike face challenges from heavy rainfall, underscoring the need for robust infrastructure and disaster preparedness. As Surat battles to recover, the nation braces for potential flooding, urging authorities to prioritize resilience and timely interventions to protect lives and livelihoods.