Gujarat on Alert: 44 Dams on High Alert, 28 at Full Capacity as Heavy Rainfall Continues

Ahmedabad: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for heavy to very heavy rainfall across several districts in Gujarat over the coming days. In the last 24 hours alone, rainfall was recorded in 141 talukas across the state. As a result of the persistent downpours, 44 dams across Gujarat have been placed on high alert, while 28 are currently at full capacity. Out of the state’s 206 reservoirs, the average water storage now stands at 60.05%. The Sardar Sarovar Dam, one of the most crucial water sources for the region, is currently 56.07% full, holding around 187,307 million cubic feet of water.

After a brief dry spell, rain has returned to Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar. Various neighborhoods in Ahmedabad, including Ranip, Gota, Chandlodia, New Ranip, Chandkheda, Motera, Jagatpur, and areas along SG Highway, received up to half an inch of rain. Gandhinagar also experienced rainfall accompanied by dark, dense clouds in both urban and rural areas. Between Sunday 6 AM and Monday 6 AM, the highest rainfall was recorded in Mangarol (Junagadh) with 3.5 inches, and Jodia (Jamnagar) with 3.25 inches. Other areas such as Junagadh city, Vapi and Umargam (Valsad), and Bhachau (Kutch) received over 2 inches of rain, while many talukas reported less than 2 inches.

The IMD has issued an orange alert for Jamnagar, Porbandar, Junagadh, and Devbhumi Dwarka, warning of potentially intense rainfall. Ahmedabad and surrounding areas are expected to see light to moderate showers with occasional heavy spells. Wind speeds across the state are likely to reach 30–40 km/h.

Scattered rainfall is forecast to continue statewide through July 26. The weather department has also issued an advisory for fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea until July 24, citing rough conditions. A depression over northwest Rajasthan has weakened into a well-marked low-pressure system, continuing to affect the monsoon trough, which stretches from Pakistan through Rajasthan and northern India to the Bay of Bengal.

So far this monsoon, 141 talukas have received between 251 mm and 500 mm of rainfall, 55 talukas have recorded between 501 mm and 1000 mm, and 18 talukas have crossed 1000 mm (40 inches), signaling a robust and widespread monsoon season across the state.

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