MP: Over 700 shifted to relief camps as rain triggers flood-like situation in Rewa

Rewa, Aug 20 (IANS) More than 700 people have been shifted to eight relief camps in Rewa city after over 15 hours of continuous rainfall triggered a flood‑like situation in several parts of the district, the administration said on Thursday.

The prolonged spell of rain over the last 24 hours has caused severe waterlogging in Rewa city, with several roads submerged and movement disrupted in low‑lying areas. Rising water levels around the Beehar River have further worsened the situation, while flood‑like conditions have also been reported from rural parts of the district.

However, people found some relief as there was little rainfall on Thursday, which allowed accumulated water in the city and other areas to drain away.

“More than 700 flood‑affected people have been shifted to eight relief camps established within the Rewa Municipal Corporation area. Food and other essential items are being provided to them,” the district administration said in a statement late on Thursday.

The administration said those shifted to the camps were being provided drinking water, medicines and other essential supplies. The SDRF and NDRF teams, along with district and municipal officials, have been deployed for relief and rescue operations.

Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Deputy Chief Minister Rajendra Shukla inspected the relief camps at TRS College, government schools and other places, interacting with affected people to review arrangements for shelter, food, drinking water and medical assistance. He also inspected several affected wards and the Municipal Corporation control room.

“People affected by rain and waterlogging are being shifted to safe locations. I have directed officials to ensure food, drinking water, medicines and other essential supplies for them,” Shukla told IANS.

He directed officials to closely monitor vulnerable areas and ensure that people are moved to safer locations wherever necessary. He also reviewed coordination between the district administration, Municipal Corporation and disaster‑response teams.

“The priority is to ensure the safety of people. The administration has been asked to remain alert and provide immediate assistance to everyone affected by the flood‑like situation,” Shukla said.

The residence of BJP MLA (Gudh) Nagendra Singh, located near the Beehar River in Rewa city, has also been surrounded by water. The MLA and his family reportedly remained inside the house for nearly 24 hours, with the lower portion submerged and water reaching the upper levels. The house’s location has raised questions about construction near the river. Singh denied encroachment, saying the land was purchased in 1975 and municipal authorities granted construction permission at that time.

Meanwhile, the district administration on Thursday established a control room at the Rewa Collectorate to coordinate relief and rescue operations, with a helpline number – 07662‑255143 – for the people.

The India Meteorological Department has forecast fairly widespread to widespread rainfall over east Madhya Pradesh during August 20‑25, with isolated heavy rainfall likely in the region. It has also forecast heavy rainfall at isolated places over west Madhya Pradesh during August 20‑21.

–IANS

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