Heavy rain boosts Dam levels across Gujarat, 15 on high alert

Heavy rainfall across Gujarat in recent days has significantly increased water levels in rivers and reservoirs, prompting authorities to issue a high alert for 15 reservoirs now filled beyond 90% of their capacity. Water storage in the state’s 206 dams surged by 555 million cubic meters (MCM) in just three days—from 5,905 MCM on Monday to 6,460 MCM on Thursday—largely due to intense rainfall in regions like Saurashtra, which alone recorded a 508 MCM increase. According to officials, smaller water bodies have started to overflow, and major reservoirs such as the Sardar Sarovar Narmada dam are witnessing steady inflows averaging 16,914 cusecs.
Though the Narmada dam is currently 396 MCM below last year’s level on the same date, overall storage across Gujarat is 1,764.84 MCM higher than in 2024. Alongside the 15 dams on high alert, 10 are filled between 80–90% of their capacity, and 34 others have crossed the 70% mark. South Gujarat’s 13 dams added 38 MCM, bringing their total to 3,594 MCM, while Kutch’s 20 dams saw an 8 MCM increase. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation as inflows continue and more rain is expected over the coming days.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall in several districts, including Kutch, Banaskantha, Patan, Sabarkantha, Tapi, and Valsad until June 26. Light to moderate rain is likely in Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Rajkot, and other regions, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds. The IMD advised residents to follow safety guidelines and limit travel, noting that the rainfall is expected to lower temperatures by 2–4°C and provide relief from ongoing heat conditions. Disaster management teams remain on alert to handle any potential emergency releases or flooding incidents.

(State Correspondent)