Heavy Rain Triggers Massive Water Release from Dams in Gujarat’s Ahmedabad
Heavy rains in upstream areas have led to a big water release from key dams and weirs in Gujarat, sparking urgent safety steps in Ahmedabad’s low-lying spots. Over the last two days, officials have let out huge amounts of water from the Dharoi Dam and Lakroda Weir to handle the rising levels.
Authorities released about 95,000 cusecs from Dharoi Dam and 90,000 cusecs from Lakroda Weir initially. Things ramped up on Sunday, with Dharoi Dam sticking to 95,000 cusecs, while Lakroda Weir jumped to a whopping 1.47 lakh cusecs.
The inflow from upstream sources like Dharoi and Sant Sarovar crossed 1.20 lakh cusecs, pushing teams to open 27 gates at the Vasna Barrage. This sent water rushing downstream toward the sea through Ahmedabad district. As a result, the lower promenade of the popular Sabarmati Riverfront got fully submerged under the floodwaters.
At its peak around 5 p.m., the Vasna Barrage discharged 93,658 cusecs, with water levels hitting 131 feet. For comparison, past years saw peaks like 1.85 lakh cusecs in 2017, 90,000 cusecs in 2019, and 50,000 cusecs in 2022. This time, Sunday’s highest release reached 1.06 lakh cusecs at 2 p.m.
To keep everyone safe amid this Gujarat flood alert, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) shut down the Sabarmati Riverfront promenade and stationed security teams along both riverbanks. Local police got the heads-up right away, and patrol units now keep a close watch on risky zones.
Police vans with loudspeakers cruised through downstream villages in low-lying areas, urging people to stay away from the riverbed and swollen banks. In a smart move, authorities relocated 25 families from Parikshit Nagar to safer spots as a precaution.
Officials are telling residents to stay alert, steer clear of riverfront zones, and follow all advisories during this ongoing heavy rainfall in Gujarat. The administration monitors water levels closely and takes every step to cut down risks from the massive dam water release. Stay tuned for updates on the Ahmedabad floods.
