India: IMD issues red alert for Gujarat, 16 die as state braces for ‘extremely heavy rains’

India’s Western coastal state of Gujarat was facing massive floods after it was hit by incessant rainfall over the past few days. The India Meteorological Department (IMD), on Wednesday (Aug 28)issued a red alert for several districts, including Vadodara, Chhotaudepur, Narmada, Bharuch, and Surat.

The department stated that the deep depression over Saurashtra and Kachchh was expected to bring more rainfall to the region as it moves towards the northeast Arabian Sea. According to scientists at the IMD, the depression is moving at a speed of 12 kmph, which was expected to cause extremely heavy to exceptionally heavyrainfall.

According to the statement, the heavy rainfall situation is likely to persist for the next three to four days.

Of all, Vadodara is the worst hit. It has witnessed massive rains for the last two days in a row, with some areas reportedly inundated by up to 12 feet.

The situation at the Vishwamitri River is the most concerning of all, as it swelled to 37 feet, way above the danger mark. The water level increased due to increased rainfall and the release of water from the Ajwa dam. The sudden release caused floods in several parts of the city, forcing the authorities to callthe Indian Army for relief and rescue operations.

Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel called the situation “alarming,” saying additional army columns, along with National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams, have been deployed.

Heavy rains and ensuing floods have at least 16people in the last two days. Thousands have been displaced as a result of the catastrophe.

The state government assured people that it was taking steps to reduce the water flow in Vishwamitri River, by diverting water from the Ajwa Dam into the Narmada canal.

"The plan has been discussed with Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel," said the health minister.

(With inputs from agencies)