Heavy rain showers across eastern and central India in the last 48 hours have killed more than 60 people, damaging crops and property as well as prompting the evacuation of thousands of people.
Uttar Pradesh is among the worst-hit states, where at least 57 people were killed in rain-related incidents as the downpours triggered flooding and widespread damage in several regions in the last 72 hours.
Of the state’s 75 districts, 63 reported above-normal rainfall, with the downpours damaging crops in rural areas and causing waterlogging in several regions, throwing the public life out of gear.
The torrential rains caused severe waterlogging on the Ganga Expressway near the Bashiratganj toll plaza in Unnao on Saturday, leading to traffic congestion on the state’s ambitious 594-km infrastructure project.
Schools Shut In Several Districts
Schools up to Class 12 in several affected districts will remain closed due to heavy rainfall. Many districts, including the state capital Lucknow, have been witnessing torrential rains in the last 24 hours, with normal lives severely disrupted.
Relief Commissioner Yashod held a video conference with the District Magistrates of districts that have been placed on ‘red’ and ‘orange’ alerts to review the situation and assess preparedness.
He directed officials that they remain vigilant, continuously monitor conditions and ensure immediate action in emergency situation.
Between September 25 and 27, Uttar Pradesh recorded 111.3 mm of rainfall, which was about 1,084% higher than the 9.4 mm typically recorded during the corresponding period.
In Maharajganj, the water level of the Gandak River rose after water was released from Nepal and continuous rainfall in the hills, with floodwaters entering three villages and affecting around 5,000 people, IANS reported.
According to the report, the District Administration and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) are evacuating people from the affected regions.
What Triggered The Rains?
The rainfall in several states, including Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal was triggered by the cyclonic system ‘Arnab’ that originated over the Bay of Bengal and made landfall near Kalingapatnam in Andhra Pradesh on September 24, before moving inland.
