In the wake of relentless heavy rainfall, Gujarat is grappling with surging water levels in its prominent dams, leading to concerns about flooding in low-lying areas. Authorities have swiftly implemented precautionary measures to address the escalating situation.
Sardar Sarovar Dam: A Significant Water Release
The Sardar Sarovar Dam, nestled on the Narmada River, has experienced a substantial release of water, approximately 10 lakh cusecs, due to the incessant rains. In response, 23 gates of the dam were opened, causing the water level to recede significantly. Remarkably, the dam reached its full reservoir level (FRL) of 138.68 meters for the first time this monsoon season, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
**Ukai Dam Takes Action to Prevent Flooding
The Ukai Dam, situated over the Tapi River, has also taken decisive action to manage rising water levels and potential flooding downstream. As a result of heavy rainfall, 15 gates of the Ukai Dam were opened, releasing an astonishing 1 lakh 98 thousand cusecs of water into the river. The executive engineer of the dam, PG Vasava, highlighted that over four lakh cusecs of water were received due to the recent heavy rains, prompting this proactive response.
**Red Alert and Warnings from IMD**
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for several Gujarat districts, including Panchmahal, Dahod, Kheda, Aravalli, Mahisagar, Banaskantha, and Sabarkantha. The alert predicts isolated extremely heavy rainfall until Tuesday morning and warns of isolated heavy to very heavy rainfall until Thursday morning.
**Flood-Like Situation in Bharuch and NDRF's Rescue Operations**
Heavy rainfall has resulted in a flood-like situation in parts of Bharuch. In Nikora village, residents in low-lying areas found themselves stranded due to rising water levels. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) swiftly deployed rescue operations to assist affected residents and alleviate the dire situation.
**School Closures in Jalore, Rajasthan**
In neighboring Rajasthan's Jalore district, heavy rainfall prompted the District Education Officer to issue an advisory, directing the closure of all schools and anganwadis in the district on September 18. The advisory aimed to ensure the safety of students and staff in light of the adverse weather conditions.
As Gujarat battles the consequences of relentless rainfall and rising dam levels, the timely response of authorities and rescue teams remains crucial in safeguarding the lives and property of residents in affected areas.
