Gujarat is experiencing heavy rainfall this monsoon season. The State Emergency Operation Centre has reported that 34 dams are currently on high alert due to the significant inflow of water. This rainfall has led to considerable water storage across the state’s reservoirs.
As of today, Gujarat has received an average of 46.89% of its expected monsoon rainfall. This amounts to 413.52 mm of rain so far. Notably, 15 talukas have received over 1,000 mm of rainfall, while 42 talukas have seen between 500 mm to 1,000 mm.
Kutch leads the state with the highest rainfall percentage, achieving 56% of its average. South Gujarat follows with 51.12%, while Saurashtra, East-Central Gujarat, and North Gujarat have received 45.92%, 45.29%, and 41.62% of their average rainfall, respectively.
The Sardar Sarovar Dam, a key reservoir on the Narmada River, has reached 48.21% of its capacity, storing 1,61,069 mcft of water. The dam has reported an inflow of over 26,000 cusecs. Overall, 206 dams in Gujarat are at 55.06% of their total capacity. Among these, 24 dams are completely full, while 49 are filled between 70-100%.
However, some reservoirs remain significantly below their capacity. For instance, the Dantiwada Dam is only 15.39% full, while the Sipu Dam is at 5.29%. In contrast, major dams like Shetrunji and Brahmani are already at 100% capacity.
Currently, 34 dams are on high alert, including Dhatarvadi in Amreli, Shetrunji in Palitana, and Brahmani in Morbi. Additionally, 20 dams are under alert, and 19 are on warning status. Notable dams on alert include Dholidhaja and Bhadar-2, while Aji-2, Aji-3, Panam, and Sukhi are under warning.
In light of the extreme weather, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has advised fishermen to avoid river activities from July 8 to July 11 due to rough conditions. Four rivers, including Kaveri and Purna, are currently overflowing, which poses additional risks to the surrounding areas.
The state has also ensured that safety measures are in place. So far, 278 citizens have been safely relocated, and 685 have been rescued from various regions in response to the heavy rains. Most roads and ST bus routes remain operational, enabling effective transportation and emergency response.
With the monsoon season still ongoing, the state expects more rainfall in the coming days. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and remain prepared to take further action if necessary to ensure public safety and manage water levels in the dams. The rainfall has not only impacted water storage but also supports agricultural activities, as farmers are completing their kharif crop sowing in the region.
In summary, while the heavy rainfall has raised concerns about dam safety, it also brings relief to the agricultural sector in Gujarat. The government continues to actively manage the water levels and ensure the safety of its residents amidst the ongoing rainfall.
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