Surat: Mild to moderate rain hit the city on Tuesday, triggering waterlogging in many areas and disrupting traffic during rush hour. The situation raised questions about the Surat Municipal Corporation’s claims of preparedness and pre-monsoon desilting, as residents reported inundation of several localities after relatively light rain.Other parts of South Gujarat received heavy rain since the early hours of Tuesday, including 124mm in Vansda of Navsari in the 12 hours ended 6pm. Due to heavy rain in parts of Navsari and Valsad, many roads were blocked by overtopping water.Surat city recorded 53mm of rain in 12 hours since 6am. Despite the rain being within a moderate range, water pooled at many places. For many residents, waterlogging has become a feature of the rainy season, with recurring complaints from several vulnerable points.Pooled water was also reported from sites where flooding was not a major issue earlier. After the July 7 flooding, civic officials are yet to implement effective long-term solutions in affected areas. Zones that face flooding every year continued to see similar conditions this season as well.In parts of Bamroli and Pandesara, overflowing water from the Bhedwad creek entered residential areas. Locals trapped in waterlogged lanes were shifted using tractors, according to local accounts.In Surat district, heavier rainfall was recorded in several talukas. Bardoli received 91mm in the same 12-hour period, Palsana 82mm, Ambika 71mm, Mahuva 68mm, Choryasi 46mm, and Mangrol 38mm. The road between Bardoli and Surat city was partially under water, leading to a massive traffic jam.Similar conditions were reported across South Gujarat, where waterlogging and flooding affected towns and rural stretches. Several roads in the region were closed after rainwater overtopped low sections.In Navsari, heavy rain in the town and catchments of rivers passing through the district contributed to waterlogging. Chikhli received 102mm, Gandevi 88mm, Navsari city 84mm and Jalalpore 79mm.In Valsad, Kaprada recorded 98mm, Nanapondha 83mm, and Valsad town 47mm. In Dang, Waghai received 93mm, Ahwa 75mm, and Subir 74mm. Tapi district saw Dolvan record 72mm, Valod 47mm, and Vyara 46mm.
