NDRF rescue 245, evacuate 852 in flood ops in Gujarat and two UTs

Gandhinagar, July 29 (AHN) The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) rescued 245 people and evacuated a further 852 during 26 flood rescue and evacuation operations carried out across Gujarat and two neighbouring Union Territories after heavy monsoon rainfall triggered widespread flooding from July 22, according to an official statement issued on Wednesday.

The operations were conducted by the 6th Battalion of the NDRF following intensification of the Southwest monsoon over South Gujarat, which was caused by a low-pressure system and favourable monsoon conditions.

Heavy to extremely heavy rainfall led to extensive flooding, waterlogging and inundation of low-lying areas, with Surat, Navsari and Valsad among the worst-affected districts.

Flooding also affected the Union Territories of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman, while Ahmedabad experienced severe urban flooding due to persistent rainfall.

"Our teams were mobilised immediately after the situation deteriorated and launched flood water rescue, evacuation, search, recovery and humanitarian assistance operations from July 22 onwards," the NDRF said.

The Battalion worked in coordination with district administrations, state authorities, police, fire and emergency services, the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and other agencies to respond to distress calls.

According to the NDRF, the operations covered Surat, Navsari, Valsad, Ahmedabad, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Daman.

Teams rescued people trapped in floodwaters, evacuated residents from inundated areas to safer locations, recovered six bodies, rescued nine livestock and distributed 290 food packets to families in inaccessible flood-hit areas.

One of the major rescue operations took place on July 23 at Kopri village in Valsad district, where a passenger bus became stranded in fast-flowing floodwaters following incessant rainfall.

The 6th Battalion of NDRF said that it reached the site promptly, conducted a 'Dynamic Risk Assessment' and launched a rescue operation using boats and other lifesaving equipment.

The operation resulted in the safe rescue of all 26 civilians on board the bus.

"A total of 52 civilians (one infant, seven children, 21 women, and 23 men) were rescued safely. The operation was completed successfully without any loss of life," officials added.

Overall, from July 22 onwards, the battalion conducted 26 flood rescue, search and evacuation operations, rescuing 245 people and evacuating 852 others.

"We remain committed to safeguarding lives, reducing the impact of disasters and extending all possible assistance to affected communities in coordination with the civil administration," officials emphasised.