Did Rajasthan Just Set a New Rainfall Record for July?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 285 mm of rainfall recorded in July, a new 69-year high.
- Severe flooding in Dholpur due to Chambal River overflow.
- Army deployed for rescue and relief operations.
- Schools in flood-prone areas closed on August 1.
- Public advised to stay away from water bodies and report hazards.
Jaipur, July 31 (NationPress) Rajasthan has experienced a remarkable 285 mm of rainfall in July this year, setting a new record for the month that hasn't been seen in 69 years. The previous record stood at 308 mm, recorded in July 1956.
Due to the relentless and heavy rains across the state, many districts are grappling with severe flooding situations, as reported by R.S. Sharma, director of the Jaipur Met Centre.
In Dholpur, the conditions have escalated to critical levels with the Chambal River rising nearly 12 meters above the danger threshold, inundating extensive areas.
To aid in the rescue and relief efforts in the flood-stricken Rajakheda area of the district, the Army has been mobilized.
Upon their arrival on Thursday, Army personnel convened a meeting with District Collector Srinidhi BT and SP Vikas Sangwan before proceeding to the impacted locales.
The administration has also opened four gates of the Parvati Dam to control the rising water levels. Following substantial rainfall in June and July, the Meteorological Department predicts above-normal rainfall for August in the Jaipur, Ajmer, Kota, Bharatpur, and Bikaner divisions.
Conversely, Udaipur and Jodhpur divisions are anticipated to receive below-normal rainfall. In light of the heavy rains, Bharatpur Collector Qamar Ul Zaman Chaudhary has declared a holiday for all government and private schools, as well as Anganwadi centers, on August 1. However, attendance for staff remains compulsory.
A two-day school holiday has been announced in cities such as Jhalawar, Baran, Tonk, Kota, and Bharatpur for Friday and Saturday.
In Alwar, Collector Dr. Artika Shukla has issued a warning, advising residents to stay away from water bodies and areas prone to flooding, including dams, waterfalls, rivers, drains, and culverts.
She has also requested the public to avoid using dilapidated buildings and to report any such structures, along with hazards related to electric poles or other risks, to the District Control Room at 0144-2338000.
With the rising water levels and persistent rains, state authorities are on high alert, actively coordinating rescue operations and urging citizens to remain vigilant and responsible, officials confirmed.