Gujarat floods: Indian Army deploys 6 columns for rescue operations amid heavy rain

Following a request from the Gujarat government, six columns of the Indian Army are conducting rescue operations in the worst-affected areas as the flood-like situation continues in parts of the state due to incessant rainfall.

The Army has been deployed to support the ongoing relief efforts.

"In response to the severe flooding in multiple districts, the Indian Army has swiftly mobilised its resources to support the ongoing relief efforts. Following a request from the Gujarat State Government, six columns of the Indian Army are undertaking rescue operations to the worst-affected areas to provide immediate Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)," the Army said in a statement on Thursday.

The Gujarat government had requested six columns of Army assistance for urgent relief operations across several districts affected by severe flooding on Tuesday, according to a press release.

Earlier, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) rescued 95 people.

Inspector Manjit of the NDRF said that Dwarka has experienced heavy rainfall over the past two days. "In the last two days, there has been heavy rainfall in Dwarka...water has entered people's homes...our team has rescued 95 people so far," Manjit said on Wednesday.

Earlier, Gujarat Health Minister Rushikesh Patel said that more than 5,000 people have been rehabilitated and over 12,000 people rescued as of Wednesday from the floods following the heavy rains that lashed the city of Vadodara.

Speaking to ANI, Patel said on Wednesday, "We have rehabilitated more than 5,000 people so far and more than 12,000 people have been rescued. The Vishwamitri River flows through Vadodara, and water has entered both sides...for those people who are trapped there, we have arranged all necessary facilities to provide them with food and medicines."

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a telephonic conversation with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and assured him of all possible support and assistance from the Central government.

"The Prime Minister provided guidance on the protection of citizens's lives and livestock. Also, Gujarat was assured of receiving all necessary support and assistance from the Central Government," CM Patel said in a post in X on August 28.

"Hon'ble Prime Minister is constantly monitoring the situation, concerned about Gujarat. He has a deep affection for the people of Gujarat. During natural calamities and whenever needed, he always stands by Gujarat and its people, offering warmth and invaluable guidance," Patel further added.

Heavy rainfall continued to lash parts of Gujarat on Wednesday, worsening the flood-like situation in Vadodara.