Vishwamitri River Near Flood Mark, Vadodara on High Alert

Continuous rainfall across central and eastern Gujarat pushed the Vishwamitri River in Vadodara close to the city’s flood benchmark on Saturday, triggering precautionary alerts but no immediate flood threat, according to civic authorities. The rising water levels have revived public anxiety, especially after the severe floods witnessed in August 2024.

River Levels Rise Due to Controlled Releases

At the Kala Ghoda bridge, the benchmark point for flood monitoring in Vadodara, the Vishwamitri rose steadily from 13.4 feet to nearly 19 feet by Saturday afternoon, inching closer to the 20-foot alert level. The increase followed the release of 6,600 cusecs of water from the Ajwa Reservoir and an additional 2,000 cusecs from Pratappura overnight. The Vadodara Municipal Corporation stated that the releases are part of a planned flood mitigation strategy to regulate reservoir levels.

Civic Body Issues Alerts, Rules Out Immediate Flood

Municipal Commissioner Arun Mahesh Babu said the situation remains under control and clarified that the releases are aimed at reducing the Ajwa Reservoir level to 212.50 feet. While alerts have been issued to residents living along the riverbanks, the civic body is not expecting flooding within the city limits. Authorities indicated that water release will be temporarily regulated if the river touches the 20-foot mark to allow downstream clearance.

Waterlogging Reported in Low-Lying Areas

Despite assurances, several localities including Subhanpura, Tarsali, Vadsar, and parts of Koteshwar Road experienced waterlogging. A section of Koteshwar Road was closed as a precaution, and public announcements urged residents of nearby housing complexes to shift to safer locations. Officials attributed the situation to heavy upstream rainfall and inflow from the outer periphery.

Important Facts for Exams

• Kala Ghoda bridge is the flood benchmark point for Vishwamitri River.
• Ajwa Reservoir is a key drinking water source for Vadodara.
• Flood mitigation includes desilting natural storm water drains.
• Full moon tides can slow river discharge into the sea.

Regional Rivers in Spate Across Gujarat

The heavy rainfall has affected multiple river systems across Gujarat. The Narmada River crossed the 28-foot mark at Bharuch following releases from the Sardar Sarovar Dam, while parts of Ankleshwar witnessed waterlogging. The Mahisagar River saw heavy flooding due to large releases from Kadana, Panam, and Wanakbori dams. District authorities in Kheda and adjoining areas have advised riverbank residents to relocate temporarily and avoid venturing near swollen rivers.