Congress leader Supriya Shrinate has voiced strong criticism against the BJP’s Gujarat Smart City initiative following severe flooding in Surat, which has brought significant disruption to daily life. The city experienced over 400 mm of rainfall within a span of 36 hours, leading to submerged roads and homes. This deluge has not only halted transportation but also raised concerns about the infrastructure’s ability to handle such extreme weather conditions. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for continued heavy rainfall in both Gujarat and Rajasthan, with an orange alert specifically for eastern Rajasthan. These alerts indicate the potential for further adverse weather conditions, urging residents to remain cautious.

The situation in Surat highlights the challenges faced by urban areas in managing extreme weather events, which are becoming increasingly frequent due to climate change. The criticism from Congress underscores a broader debate about the effectiveness of urban planning and infrastructure development under the BJP’s governance in Gujarat. The Smart City initiative, aimed at modernizing urban infrastructure and improving quality of life, is under scrutiny as the flooding exposes vulnerabilities in the city’s preparedness for natural disasters.

The political implications of this situation are significant, as it provides an opportunity for opposition parties to question the ruling party’s claims of development and progress. The BJP’s model of governance, often showcased as a success story, is being challenged by these recent events. As the region braces for more rain, the focus remains on how effectively local authorities can manage the crisis and mitigate further damage.