Heavy Rains Paralyze Surat: Waterlogged Streets, Homes Turn to Ponds
The city of Surat is grappling with severe flooding caused by incessant heavy rainfall, leaving streets, homes, and low-lying areas submerged in water.
Surat city is grappling with unprecedented torrential rains that have brought life to a standstill. Flood-like conditions have engulfed the city, with waterlogged roads, neighborhoods, and apartments creating a crisis, particularly in low-lying areas. As residents struggle to cope, the Gujarat government has ordered the closure of all schools and educational institutions to ensure safety.
Widespread Waterlogging Paralyses City
The relentless downpour, starting Monday night, has inundated Surat’s key areas, including Vesu, Adajan, and Pal. Major roads like Ring Road and VIP Road are submerged, disrupting traffic and stranding commuters. Residential societies report knee-deep water in basements and ground-floor apartments, damaging property and appliances. Low-lying areas like Katargam and Udhna resemble vast ponds, with water levels reaching up to three feet. The overflowing Tapi River and clogged drainage systems have worsened the situation, leaving residents trapped and authorities scrambling to respond.
Challenges for Residents
The heavy rainfall has made daily life excruciating. Venturing outside is nearly impossible due to flooded streets and non-functional public transport. Even staying indoors poses challenges, as water discharge has rendered many homes uninhabitable. Power outages in several areas have compounded the misery, with residents relying on candles and limited supplies. Local markets, usually bustling, are deserted, and essential supplies are running low. The elderly and children are particularly vulnerable, with families struggling to access medical care or emergency services.
Heavy rains lash #Gujarat ‘s Surat again today Some villages submerged. Roads waterlogged, leaving drivers and pedestrians in deep distress. Several vehicles stranded as streets turn into streams.@santwana99 @NewIndianXpress @jayanthjacob pic.twitter.com/OqFIZ1AM1q
— Dilip Kshatriya (@Kshatriyadilip) June 24, 2025
Government’s Precautionary Measures
In response to the crisis, the Gujarat government ordered the closure of all schools and educational institutions in Surat until conditions improve. The Surat Municipal Corporation has deployed teams to pump out water and clear drains, while the fire department is assisting with rescue operations in severely affected areas. An advisory has been issued urging residents to stay indoors and avoid waterlogged zones. Relief camps are being set up to provide food and shelter to those displaced.
A City in Resilience
As Surat battles this deluge, the resilience of its people shines through. Volunteers and local NGOs are aiding relief efforts, distributing essentials. With forecasts predicting more rain, authorities are on high alert, working to restore normalcy. Surat’s spirit remains unbroken, but the road to recovery will demand collective effort and time.
