Akhilesh Yadav, the leader of the Samajwadi Party, used social media to criticise the Uttar Pradesh government following severe rainfall that resulted in at least 10 fatalities and 17 injuries across the state. His remarks coincided with substantial waterlogging issues along the Ganga Expressway, prompting him to suggest a provocative name change to the “Ganga Express Waterway.”

Yadav’s comments included a video highlighting the extensive flooding on the expressway, which he associated with alleged corruption linked to the ruling party. The intense weather led to disruptions in 63 districts of Uttar Pradesh, which reported rainfall levels significantly above normal. In just a 24-hour period ending Saturday morning, the state experienced a staggering 19 times its usual rainfall.

It was accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds that severely affected numerous areas. Authorities confirmed that the resulting conditions had led to tragic outcomes, with five individuals reported dead due to collapsed mud walls and five others killed by falling trees. Among the worst affected were Gorakhpur and Campierganj, where multiple tree-related incidents resulted in injuries and casualties.

Significant Waterlogging at Ganga Expressway

In Unnao, the Sonik toll plaza on the Ganga Expressway was heavily submerged following approximately 36 hours of intermittent rain, resulting in water levels reaching 5 to 6 feet in some areas. Toll cabins were left inundated, and a trailer truck was reported stranded after water entered its engine.

Emergency services were deployed to address the situation, including the use of generators and a JCB to divert the accumulated water. However, despite hours of efforts, water levels remained high, causing long delays for commuters heading towards Prayagraj. The Ganga Expressway, which spans about 594 kilometres between Meerut and Prayagraj, has faced similar instances of waterlogging in previous seasonal rains.

It raises concerns about the adequacy of drainage systems at key points along the expressway. Reports indicated that traffic disruptions were widespread due to flooding, further complicating matters for residents and commuters alike. Local authorities have been urged to assess these conditions and find effective solutions to prevent recurrence.

Govt Response and Precautionary Measures

The India Meteorological Department has predicted continued heavy rainfall in eastern Uttar Pradesh, with isolated instances of extremely heavy rainfall likely in the central Terai region. This has raised alarms over potential flash floods, prompting the state government to take swift action. District administrations have been placed on alert status, and schools in affected areas have been mandated to remain closed.

District magistrates have been tasked with assessing damages to infrastructure and crops while ensuring necessary evacuations from vulnerable zones. Relief and rescue operations were mobilised, including various emergency response teams. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has called for vigilance in affected districts and urged residents to limit travel during severe weather conditions for their safety.

Advisories have been issued, recommending that the population stay clear of open areas, trees, and bodies of water during thunderstorm activity. As conditions are expected to return to normal after about 36 hours, authorities have encouraged citizens in need of immediate help to reach out through the designated emergency helpline. The focus remains on preparedness and ensuring the safety of all residents while addressing the aftermath of the severe weather system that has impacted so many lives in the state.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share