Fatehpur Shekhawati: Fatehpur Shekhawati in Rajasthan experienced record-breaking rainfall that led to severe flooding in the typically dry and sandy region. The intense downpour left the usually arid area submerged under water, with many parts of Sikar district facing significantly increased water levels.
Meanwhile, students and teachers from a girls’ school near the main bus stand had to be evacuated due to severe flooding. The school was completely submerged, and rescue teams had to use tractors and trolleys to bring those stranded to safety. The flooding at the school highlighted the urgent need for effective emergency responses in such situations.
Orange alert issued for Rajasthan
The district’s average annual monsoon rainfall usually amounted to around 477 mm, but this year, it had already exceeded 490 mm, with 12 days of the monsoon season still remaining. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an ‘orange alert’ till September 8.
Widespread disruptions
The heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding in Fatehpur Shekhawati, with roads and streets turning into rivers. Many residents and passengers at the bus stand were left stranded, unable to escape the rising waters. The floodwaters reached up to 4-5 feet, submerging parked vehicles and creating a chaotic scene. Boats were seen navigating through the streets, an unusual sight for this desert region.
The flooding also had a significant impact on homes and local infrastructure. Several landmarks, including the old cinema hall, Mandawa Bridge, and Nawalgarh Pulia, suffered damage due to the relentless rains. Roads accumulated up to 5 feet of water, transforming them into rivers and making travel and daily life extremely challenging for residents.
As the city dealt with the aftermath of the flooding, the situation remained uncertain. The ongoing rainfall and the ‘orange alert’ suggested that more heavy rain could be on the way, complicating recovery efforts. Authorities worked to manage the crisis, but the extent of the damage and the effectiveness of their response depended on future weather conditions and continued rainfall.
