The Sardar Sarovar Dam, crucial for Gujarat’s water supply, currently holds 53.04% of its water capacity. This is an important increase compared to last year’s 40.81% at the same time. Currently, the state has an overall water storage of 44.18% across 207 reservoirs, thanks to substantial rainfall last year. This has improved water availability for both drinking and irrigation needs. The data from the Water Resources Department in Gandhinagar shows that the dam plays a vital role in managing water for urban and rural areas.
In central Gujarat, 17 reservoirs show the highest storage at 44.08%. Southern Gujarat’s 13 reservoirs hold 43.25%, while northern Gujarat’s 15 reservoirs show 29.38%. In Saurashtra, 141 reservoirs hold 28.10%, and in Kutch, 20 reservoirs have 27.57%. These figures highlight satisfactory water availability across different regions of the state.
Particularly notable are the reservoirs in Surendranagar’s Dholidhaja and Morbi’s Machhu-3, which have over 91% water available. Other reservoirs, such as Kutch’s Kalaghoda, hold 82%, Rajkot’s Bhadar-2 has 77%, and Chhota Udepur’s Sukhi reservoir contains 74%.
The state has six reservoirs filled to 70-100%, 20 reservoirs between 50-70%, and 71 reservoirs at 25-50%. This distribution of water ensures that there is enough supply for citizens during the summer months.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Water Resources Minister Kunwarji Bawaliya, the government has launched several water conservation initiatives. These include the Sujalama Sufalam water conservation campaign and the Nal Se Jal campaign. These efforts aim to make Gujarat self-reliant in water management. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Catch the Rain’ initiative has also been put into action with the launch of ‘Catch the Rain – Sujalama Sufalam Water Campaign 2.0’ from Dwad in Mehsana.
Additionally, the dam’s water levels are supported by good rainfall in Madhya Pradesh, which contributes to the dam’s reservoir. As of Monday, inflows from upstream reached 1.50 lakh cusecs, helping to raise the water level. The dam’s capacity can hold water up to 138.68 meters, and it is currently at 127.24 meters, indicating a healthy water level.
The Sardar Sarovar project is one of India’s largest dam projects and is essential for irrigation and drinking water supply not only to Gujarat but also to Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. The dam’s construction has faced various challenges over the years, but it has become a crucial asset for the state.
In anticipation of the upcoming monsoon season, preparations are being made to manage water levels effectively. The state expects good rainfall again, following last year’s average of 124.66%, with Kutch receiving an impressive 183.34% rainfall. This has prompted the government to prepare for efficient water storage to cater to the needs of both urban and rural populations.
The successful initiatives like Sujalama Sufalam and Nal Se Jal have made a significant impact on water conservation in Gujarat. With the monsoon approaching, the state is well-equipped to meet its water requirements. The Sardar Sarovar Dam, along with other reservoirs, shows that Gujarat is ready for the challenges of the upcoming season.
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