Authorities in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, have removed more than 200 large banners and hoardings and demolished unsafe advertising structures ahead of a forecast of heavy rainfall and strong winds, as the district administration declared a holiday on 1 August for all schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres. The sweeping precautionary drive was triggered by an India Meteorological Department (IMD) alert covering Gandhinagar and surrounding areas.

Hoarding Removal Drive

The Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation deployed teams to survey the city after the IMD issued its heavy-rain forecast. More than 200 large and potentially hazardous banners were taken down to reduce the risk of wind-related accidents. Hoardings found to be in a dilapidated condition or erected without official permission were identified during inspections, and unauthorised iron structures were demolished using machinery.

The drive concentrated on major roads, city entry points, and other high-footfall locations to minimise the risk of injury or property damage should structures collapse during adverse weather. Advertising agencies and private property owners have been urged to remove dangerous boards on their own initiative.

'It remains prepared to respond to any emergency during the monsoon and the campaign to remove hazardous hoardings will continue over the coming days,' the civic body said. Citizens have been advised to stay indoors during heavy rainfall and to report hazardous hoardings or dangerous trees to the Municipal Corporation's toll-free control room.

Schools and Colleges Closed on August 1

In view of the weather forecast, the Gandhinagar district administration declared 1 August a holiday for all schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centres across the district. The decision reflects a precautionary approach consistent with Gujarat's monsoon-season protocols, under which educational institutions are routinely shut when severe weather is anticipated.

Health Department on High Alert

The district health department has simultaneously placed its emergency response system on alert. A total of 44 Rapid Response Teams — including 40 teams stationed at Primary Health Centres and one team in each taluka — have been deployed and equipped with ambulances, essential medicines, and emergency supplies to provide round-the-clock assistance if required.

In addition, 174 field teams have been conducting continuous surveillance, health screening, and preventive public health measures across the district. These teams are carrying out chlorination of drinking water sources, spraying medicines to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks, and distributing essential medicines where needed.

Special Arrangements for Pregnant Women

The health department has made special arrangements for pregnant women whose deliveries are expected this week. Officials said they are maintaining continuous contact with expectant mothers and have prepared advance plans to ensure safe transport to healthcare facilities despite any disruption caused by heavy rainfall.

The district health department has appealed to residents not to believe rumours, to drink boiled water, and to contact the nearest Primary Health Centre in the event of any health-related emergency. With the monsoon at its peak, authorities say the multi-agency response will remain in place until the weather threat subsides.