Gujarat rains: Indian Army deploys 6 columns for rescue operations

The Indian Army has mobilized six columns to conduct rescue operations in Gujarat’s worst-affected areas as flood-like conditions persist due to continuous heavy rainfall. This deployment comes in response to an urgent request from the Gujarat state government for assistance in managing the crisis.

“Following the state government’s appeal, the Army has swiftly dispatched six columns to provide immediate Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief in the most severely impacted districts,” an Army spokesperson said on Thursday.

Inspector Manjit of the NDRF said that Dwarka has experienced heavy rainfall over the past two days. “In the last two days, there has been heavy rainfall in Dwarka…water has entered people’s homes…our team has rescued 95 people so far,” Manjit said on Wednesday.

Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel reported that over 12,000 people have been rescued and more than 5,000 rehabilitated as of Wednesday. The city of Vadodara has been significantly affected, with floodwaters from the Vishwamitri River inundating both banks.

“We’ve ensured all necessary provisions, including food and medicine, for those still trapped by the floods,” Minister Patel said.

“The Prime Minister provided guidance on the protection of citizens’s lives and livestock. Also, Gujarat was assured of receiving all necessary support and assistance from the Central Government,” CM Patel said in a post in X on August 28.

“Hon’ble Prime Minister is constantly monitoring the situation, concerned about Gujarat. He has a deep affection for the people of Gujarat. During natural calamities and whenever needed, he always stands by Gujarat and its people, offering warmth and invaluable guidance,” Patel further added.

Heavy rainfall continued to lash parts of Gujarat on Wednesday, worsening the flood-like situation in Vadodara.