Vishwamitri River Nears Flood Alert Level in Vadodara After Heavy Gujarat Rains

Rising Water Levels Trigger Caution in Vadodara

Continuous rainfall across central and eastern Gujarat has pushed the Vishwamitri River close to its flood alert level in Vadodara , prompting precautionary measures by civic authorities. While officials have ruled out an immediate flood threat, the situation has revived public concern, especially in light of the devastating floods experienced in August 2024.

Controlled Releases Push River Towards Alert Mark

At the Kala Ghoda bridge—Vadodara’s official flood benchmark—the river level rose sharply from about 13.4 feet to nearly 19 feet by Saturday afternoon, approaching the 20-foot alert threshold. The rise followed controlled releases of water from Ajwa Reservoir , with around 6,600 cusecs discharged, along with an additional 2,000 cusecs released from Pratappura overnight.

The Vadodara Municipal Corporation clarified that these releases are part of a calibrated flood-management strategy aimed at lowering reservoir levels to a safe mark while accommodating heavy inflows caused by persistent rainfall upstream.

Civic Authorities Rule Out Immediate Flood Risk

Municipal Commissioner Arun Mahesh Babu said the situation remains under close watch and under control. Alerts have been issued to residents in low-lying riverbank areas as a precaution, but officials stressed that flooding within city limits is not anticipated at present. Authorities also indicated that water discharge would be temporarily regulated if the river reaches the 20-foot mark, allowing downstream flow to stabilise.

Waterlogging in Low-Lying Localities

Despite official assurances, waterlogging was reported in several neighbourhoods, including Subhanpura, Tarsali, Vadsar and stretches near Koteshwar Road. As a preventive step, a portion of Koteshwar Road was closed, and residents in nearby housing societies were advised to move to safer locations. Officials attributed the situation to intense rainfall in upstream catchments and inflow from peripheral areas rather than river overflow.

Important Facts for Exams

• Kala Ghoda bridge is the flood benchmark point for the Vishwamitri River

• Ajwa Reservoir is a major drinking water source for Vadodara

• Controlled water releases are part of flood-mitigation strategy

• Waterlogging often occurs in low-lying urban areas during heavy rainfall

Wider Impact Across Gujarat

The rainfall has affected multiple river systems across the state. The Narmada River crossed the 28-foot mark at Bharuch after releases from the Sardar Sarovar Dam , while parts of Ankleshwar reported waterlogging. Similarly, the Mahisagar River witnessed flooding following large releases from Kadana, Panam and Wanakbori dams. District administrations in Kheda and neighbouring regions have advised riverbank residents to remain alert and temporarily relocate if required.

Situation Under Watch

While no immediate flood threat has been declared, authorities continue round-the-clock monitoring of river levels and reservoir outflows. The current episode highlights the importance of proactive reservoir management and early warning systems as Gujarat navigates another intense monsoon phase.