Gujarat has been experiencing heavy rainfall, signalling the arrival of the monsoon. In the past 24 hours, 221 talukas in the state have received significant rainfall. The highest recorded rainfall includes 14 inches in Gadha, 12 inches in Palitana, and 11.6 inches in Siyot. The Shetrunji Dam in Bhavnagar reached full capacity on June 17. This has raised concerns for nearby villages, prompting alerts for residents.
The heavy rainfall has led to the overflowing of five dams in Amreli as well. The Dhatarwadi Dam had to open all 16 gates to manage the water flow. Authorities sounded alarms to warn low-lying and riverside communities before releasing the water. This is the first heavy rain of the season, and it has already necessitated the opening of dam gates.
In Bhavnagar, the rainfall has caused flooding in many areas. Schools have been closed on June 18 due to the extreme weather. District Collector Dr. Manish Bansal announced that all schools, from pre-primary to standard 12, will remain shut due to the heavy rainfall and the red alert issued by the weather department.
The rainfall has disrupted many areas. A causeway connecting Bhutiyal and Shetrunji Dams collapsed, and reports suggest the old pipeline in Shetrunji has also broken. Water from the river has flooded nearby villages, disrupting communication with areas like Navagam and Loliya.
The heavy rains have also caused road blockages in Amreli. In some cases, farmers and their livestock have been trapped due to flooding. A tragic incident occurred when a father and son were swept away by the river water in a cart accident.
The Bay of Bengal is influencing the weather patterns, leading to warnings for further rain across Saurashtra and southern Gujarat. The weather department has indicated that monsoon activity is increasing and heavy rains are expected to continue until June 21.
Residents in the affected areas are urged to stay alert and follow safety guidelines. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed. Local officials have been busy coordinating rescue and relief efforts as the region braces for more rainfall in the coming days.
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