Gujarat gets ready to face rains

The state administration in Gujarat is gearing up to tackle the threat of flooding to minimise the impact on the industry. The Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority (GSDMA) has already started co-ordinating with taluka- and district-level authorities.

The state witnessed major floods in August last year, and Surat, the hub of diamond and textiles industry, was 95% submerged due to the flooding of River Tapti, and more than 10,000 cusecs water released from Ukai Dam. According to the government, the total loss of property and business was nearly Rs 21,000 crore, and Surat alone suffered damage of around Rs 15,000 crore.

G A Oza, director(relief), Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority said: "We are not taking any chances this time. We have already started taking steps to tackle emergencies.

"We have started monthly review meetings across the state. We are constantly in touch with collectors and guiding them on various issues. During the monthly review meetings, district collectors prepare a monthly plan and give us a note on their requirement.

"District collectors are also asked to prepare a seasonal and annual plan so that we can monitor the situation periodically. We are buying boats and safety equipment as per their needs."

Surat Mayor Kanu Mawani said: "We are all ready to tackle any eventually this time. Authorities are constantly in contact with the GSDMA, and officials are being guided properly."