Shahapur taluka, located 70 km from Mumbai, faced a deluge as heavy rains led to severe flooding, stranding hundreds of residents and tourists. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) sprang into action, rescuing 151 individuals, including tourists, from inundated areas near the Bharangi and Bhatsa rivers.
The flooding, triggered by incessant rainfall in Shahapur and nearby Murbad taluka, caused widespread havoc early Sunday morning. Around 200 homes were submerged, and vehicles were rendered impassable as floodwaters rose suddenly, catching residents off guard. In Vasind and Gujarati Pada villages, the situation turned critical as water levels reached up to five feet, prompting distress calls to the district’s disaster management authorities.
A team of 40 NDRF personnel swiftly mobilized rescue efforts, utilizing boats and vehicles to evacuate stranded individuals. “Families from Thane and Mumbai, including tourists at Shristi Farm near Vasind, were among those rescued,” highlighted NDRF inspector Sushant Kumar Singh. Despite challenging conditions, all individuals were safely evacuated as water levels gradually receded later in the day.
The aftermath of the floods left a trail of destruction, with approximately 120 houses affected in Vasind and significant damage reported in Gujarati Pada. Tragically, hundreds of animals perished, and vehicles, including a recently purchased car, were swept away by the surging waters.
In response to the calamity, Shahapur MLA Daulat Daroda visited the affected areas, addressing concerns over alleged illegal constructions along the riverside, which locals blamed for exacerbating the flooding. The district collector pledged immediate action against such constructions to prevent future disasters.
As the region grapples with the aftermath, affected villagers have sought refuge in nearby shelters while awaiting the receding of floodwaters. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with additional personnel deployed to assess damages and facilitate recovery efforts.
The incident underscores the vulnerability of low-lying areas during monsoon season in Maharashtra, necessitating robust preparedness and proactive measures to mitigate risks and ensure public safety. The coordinated efforts of NDRF and local authorities remain pivotal in addressing such natural disasters effectively.
Sources By Agencies
