868 people killed due to floods, cyclones, rains in 5 years in Gujarat

A total of 868 people have lost their lives in Gujarat due to hydro-meteorological disasters — including floods, cyclones, heavy rains, and lightning — between 2020-21 and 2024-25, according to data tabled by the Ministry of Home Affairs in the Lok Sabha.

In 2024-25, the state recorded 230 human deaths due to such disasters, along with damage to over 20,000 houses/huts and the loss of 7,222 cattle. In 2023-24, Gujarat reported 236 fatalities and damage to more than 30,000 houses/huts from hydro-meteorological events.

Nationally, Gujarat ranked fourth in human lives lost to such disasters in 2024-25, behind Himachal Pradesh (408 deaths), Madhya Pradesh (373), and Kerala (355). In 2023-24, the state ranked third with 236 deaths, trailing only Himachal Pradesh (566) and Bihar (518).

The Ministry clarified that it does not centrally maintain data on the total number of natural disaster events reported across the country, but compiles damage and loss figures submitted by states and Union Territories. As per the National Policy on Disaster Management (NPDM), primary responsibility for disaster management and on-ground relief operations lies with the respective state governments. States initially utilise funds from the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) as per approved norms.

The Centre supplements state efforts by providing logistical and financial assistance. In the event of a “severe” disaster, additional aid is released from the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) after an assessment by an Inter-Ministerial Central Team (IMCT).