Over 50,000 displaced in Banaskantha, Patan
Heavy rainfall in adjoining Rajasthan compounded the situation as it led to an increase in water levels in rivers and dams in the region.
Rescue teams in Banaskantha and Patan districts on Tuesday recovered the bodies of 18 persons reported missing after they got washed away in flood waters.
As per records made available by the state administration, over 50,000 people have been displaced in both districts. Heavy rainfall in adjoining Rajasthan compounded the situation as it led to an increase in water levels in rivers and dams in the region.
Dhanera, Dantiwada and Tharad towns suffered massive damage with several areas completely submerged. More than 2,000 people were rescued by different teams of the National Disaster Response Force, the Army, Air Force, local administrations, police and fire brigade.
With water levels in several villages rising between six and seven feet, as many as 1,000 villages have been marooned in both Banaskantha and Patan. People were seen taking shelter on rooftops and waiting to be airlifted to safer places. However, rescue teams were unable to access several places due to strong currents and low visibility.