Chambal River Rises, Army Called in Dholpur
Floodwaters submerge vehicles; schools closed in 13 districts as heavy rains batter Rajasthan……
Dholpur Rajasthan is once again facing the fury of nature as torrential rains continue to lash several parts of the state. In Dholpur district, the situation has turned critical with the Chambal River rising above the danger mark, prompting authorities to summon the Army for assistance. The overflowing river has already begun to threaten low-lying areas, raising alarm among residents.
In Sikar district, the relentless rain led to the submergence of several vehicles, including a truck and a passenger bus. The visuals coming out of the area show dramatic scenes where a JCB machine had to be deployed to rescue stranded individuals. Passengers, drenched and terrified, were pulled out one by one from the semi-submerged bus, highlighting the urgency and scale of the emergency response.
The state government has issued a high alert in 18 districts, warning of continued heavy rainfall over the next 24 to 48 hours. As a precautionary measure, schools in 13 districts have been ordered to remain closed. The Education Department cited safety concerns for students and staff, given the waterlogged roads and overflowing drains that have made travel extremely risky.
Locals in the flood-affected regions are facing tremendous hardship. Many have had to evacuate their homes, moving to higher ground with whatever belongings they could carry. Relief camps are being set up, and food and essential supplies are being distributed by disaster management teams and local volunteers.
Farmers are particularly hit hard. Just when many were preparing for harvesting, their fields are now under several feet of water, risking both crop loss and long-term soil damage. Livestock, too, has been impacted, with many cattle swept away or stranded.
The meteorological department has attributed the intense rain activity to a strong low-pressure system hovering over northern India, pulling in moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. This monsoon surge has intensified over the past three days and is expected to persist for another few days.
The state machinery is on high alert. CM Bhajanlal Sharma has been receiving real-time updates from district collectors and disaster management teams. He has directed officials to ensure swift rescue operations and provide adequate shelter and relief to the displaced. Additionally, teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been dispatched to the most affected areas to aid in evacuation and distribute aid.
The flood crisis in Rajasthan once again exposes the need for better urban planning and drainage infrastructure. As climate change continues to intensify weather patterns, the state may have to revisit its preparedness and response strategy for extreme weather events. For now, the priority remains saving lives and minimizing damage.