Congress Blames Illegal Shrimp Ponds for Olpad Flooding, Demands Immediate Action

SURAT : As floodwaters submerged several villages in Surat’s Olpad taluka following heavy rainfall, the Congress has alleged that illegal shrimp ponds built along creeks are a major reason for recurring waterlogging. The party has demanded immediate action to restore the natural flow of rainwater into the sea.

Olpad Taluka Congress Committee President Hemal Patel (Lakhan) claimed that villages including Ngoi, Sodalakhara, Mindhi, Karanj, Merjapore, Delasa and Bhatgam were inundated within just a few hours of rain, despite advance warnings issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

According to Patel, the problem is not limited to heavy rainfall alone.

“The real reason behind repeated flooding is the large number of illegal shrimp ponds constructed along the seashore and creek banks. These structures obstruct the natural flow of water, preventing rainwater from reaching the sea and causing villages and farmlands to flood,” he said.

Patel said concerns over encroachments around creeks had been raised several years ago through social media, and assurances of action were reportedly given. However, he alleged that illegal shrimp ponds continue to exist in large numbers across Olpad taluka.

He urged the district and state administrations to take immediate corrective measures before future monsoon seasons.

“All creeks should be surveyed immediately. Illegal shrimp ponds and all encroachments on natural waterways must be removed. Restoring the natural drainage system is the only long-term solution to reduce flooding and protect farmers,” Patel added.

The Congress leader also appealed to the print, electronic and digital media to highlight the issue so that the authorities act without delay.

The allegations come as several parts of South Gujarat continue to face severe flooding following record-breaking rainfall. The administration has not yet issued an official response to the claims regarding illegal shrimp ponds and their alleged role in obstructing natural drainage.