Foreign tourists rescued by JCB during massive floods in western India
by Bhagyashree BarmanIn a dramatic rescue operation in western India’s Gujarat, foreign tourists were saved from a flood-stricken hotel using a JCB (excavator) during severe floods that submerged the city.
The incident took place in Vadodara on August 26.
Visuals showed how the tourists were being carried on a JCB machine amidst the flood waters looking perplexed yet excited.
According to reports, heavy rains had led to the swelling of the Vishwamitri River, causing widespread flooding across Vadodara, trapping residents and visitors alike.
The stranded tourists, who were staying in a hotel near the river, found themselves surrounded by rapidly rising water. With no other options available, local authorities deployed a JCB to reach the hotel. The machine waded through the deep waters, and the tourists were carefully lifted to safety, one by one.
The Vadodara floods have disrupted life in the city, with several areas under water, prompting rescue teams to work round the clock. The situation has been particularly challenging for non-residents, such as the foreign tourists, who were unfamiliar with the local geography and the severity of the flooding.
Authorities have urged people to avoid unnecessary travel and to stay indoors as rescue efforts continue. The tourists expressed their gratitude to the local rescue teams for their quick response and bravery.