27 Tamil Nadu pilgrims rescued from flooded causeway in Bhavnagar

On Thursday evening, a bus carrying 27 pilgrims from Tamil Nadu and Puducherry became stranded on a flooded causeway in Bhavnagar district, Gujarat. The pilgrims were returning from a visit to the Nishkalank Mahadev temple when heavy rains caused the causeway to become submerged. Despite the dangerous conditions, the bus driver attempted to cross the flooded area, leading to the front of the bus dipping into the river while the rear remained stuck on the causeway. District Collector RK Mehta supervised the rescue operation, which lasted nearly eight hours. Rescuers initially used a mini-truck to transfer the stranded individuals from the bus through its rear window. However, the mini-truck also became stuck on the causeway, complicating the rescue efforts. Most of the stranded individuals were senior citizens, which added urgency to the situation. To ensure the safety of all involved, a larger truck was dispatched to transfer the 29 individuals from the mini-truck. By around 3 am, after significant efforts, all were brought to safety. The local authorities provided them with accommodation and food in Bhavnagar, and medical tests were conducted to ensure their well-being. This incident highlights the dangers posed by heavy rains and the importance of adhering to safety protocols when traveling in adverse weather conditions. The successful rescue operation underscores the commitment of local officials and rescuers to protect the lives of those in distress.