Surat on High Alert as Heavy Rain Warning Puts Disaster Teams on War Footing

SURAT : With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a Red and Orange Alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in South Gujarat, the Surat city and district administration have launched a full-scale disaster preparedness operation. Emergency teams have been deployed across vulnerable areas, a 24×7 Disaster Control Room has been activated, and authorities are closely monitoring the Tapi River, creeks and causeways to prevent any rain-related emergencies.

Under the direct supervision of the District Collector and Municipal Commissioner, officials have strengthened surveillance and emergency response systems as intense rainfall continues to lash the region.

To ensure round-the-clock monitoring, Deputy Mamlatdars have been assigned to the Disaster Control Room in three shifts. Equipped with advanced communication technology, the control room is maintaining constant contact with all taluka headquarters through satellite phones, wireless systems and digital platforms for real-time updates.

The Surat Municipal Corporation, Surat Police and the district administration have also established a joint emergency response mechanism. Sub-control rooms have been activated in flood-prone city zones and villages, while police personnel are managing traffic diversions. Municipal hydraulic and fire brigade teams remain on standby with pumping machines and rescue boats. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has also been kept on alert for immediate deployment to Olpad or Choryasi if the situation worsens.

Authorities have placed low-lying riverbank areas under high alert and kept shelter homes, government schools and community halls ready for evacuation if water is released from upstream reservoirs or flooding intensifies.

According to Deputy Mamlatdar Sajid Mereji of the District Emergency Operation Centre, nearly 100 incidents of collapsed kutcha houses, dilapidated structures and compound walls have already been reported across the district. A gallery slab collapse in Udhna caused no injuries, while one person lost their life in Mangrol taluka after an electric pole fell during the rains.

“Teams from the municipality and the Rural Development Department have intensified the removal of dangerous structures and are evacuating unsafe buildings to prevent further casualties,” Mereji said.

Deputy Mamlatdar Virendra Vadher urged residents to remain vigilant. “The Meteorological Department has forecast heavy rainfall over the next few days. Citizens should stay away from rivers, streams, lakes and beaches and avoid travelling unless absolutely necessary. Our Disaster Control Room is functioning 24×7, and all emergency systems are fully operational,” he said.

Authorities have appealed to residents to follow official advisories, remain indoors during periods of intense rainfall and immediately contact emergency helplines in case of any distress. With heavy showers expected to continue, the administration remains on high alert to minimise risks and ensure public safety.