Heavy monsoon rains in India’s Gujarat state have claimed at least 18 lives due to weather-related incidents. According to AFP, torrential rainfall began on Monday across several parts of the state, with the southern districts facing the worst impact.
State authorities confirmed on Tuesday night that 18 people had died in incidents linked to the downpour. These included building collapses, lightning strikes, and storm-related accidents. Disaster response teams rescued dozens trapped in low-lying areas.
The worst-hit towns include Palitana and Jesar, where over 867mm of rain was recorded in just 24 hours. Flooding in these areas forced residents to evacuate as rivers overflowed into homes and farmlands.
State Relief Commissioner Alok Kumar Pandey said the government is fully prepared to handle the situation. He added that inter-agency coordination is being strengthened to ensure rapid emergency response and aid delivery.
Among those rescued were 18 farm workers trapped in mango orchards in Gadhada and 22 more from Surendranagar district, where rising river water entered homes. With more rainfall expected, emergency teams remain on high alert.