Chaos reigns in Surat as city tries to get back to normal

Chaos was the order of the day in Surat as the streets were swarmed with residents trying to obtain food, water and other basic supplies. Milk shops witnessed a mad rush, even as prices of milk hit the roof at Rs 50 for a 500 gm packet.

Although the situation is still far from normal, the water is slowly showing signs of receding except in Adajan, Rander, Amroli and Katargam which are still submerged in water. It is reported that rescue workers, including the Army, are still finding it difficult to approach these areas.

Although the official number of confirmed deaths is 21, hospital authorities say it is around 69 and sources in the government believe the number of deaths would cross 100 by tomorrow.

The basic supplies situation is also quite grim with water unavailable in almost all the areas.

Chatrasinh Modi, minister for food and supplies, said, "Around 15 to 20 per cent of the city is still deeply submerged in water but we are trying to transport people to safer areas. 19 railway racks loaded with basic supplies are on their way to Surat and more aid is also being sent by air."

The government has despatched around 2,000 workers to Surat to tackle the power situation, which is likely to take at least three more days to be fully functional. By afternoon, telephone lines were restored in a few areas but a major part of the city is yet to resume telecommunication services.

The long lines for basic supplies witnessed heated confrontations in many parts of the city, including Varachha where a man was beaten up by a mob who suspected that he had stolen money. A large number of residents were also seen shifting to other safer places in the city.