Is Gujarat Experiencing Over 92% Rainfall? 113 Dams on High Alert!

Gandhinagar, Sep 4 (NationPress) Gujarat has witnessed extensive rainfall this monsoon season, achieving an average of 92.64% across the state as of Thursday, as reported by the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC).

North Gujarat has excelled with the highest rainfall at 96.94%, closely followed by South Gujarat at 96.91%, East-Central Gujarat with 93.79%, Kutch at 85.14%, and Saurashtra at 84.74%. This consistent and heavy rainfall has greatly replenished the reservoirs.

Out of the 206 dams in the state, 113 are currently on high alert, with 82 filled to full capacity and 68 between 70-100%.

The Sardar Sarovar Dam, known as Gujarat’s lifeline, holds over 89% of its total storage capacity. The abundant rainfall has also positively impacted agriculture. As of September 1, 96.29% of the cultivable area has been sown with kharif crops. Groundnut leads with 22 lakh hectares under cultivation, followed by cotton with 20 lakh hectares and paddy with over 8 lakh hectares, according to the state agriculture department. In the last 24 hours, 24 districts and 158 talukas recorded more than 12 mm of rainfall.

Meanwhile, the IMD has warned fishermen against venturing into the sea from September 4 to 7 due to adverse weather conditions.

This year’s rainfall has had a dual effect on farming in Gujarat—largely advantageous for crop yields but also presenting challenges in certain areas. With the state receiving over 92% of its seasonal average rainfall, it guarantees sufficient irrigation for kharif crops such as cotton, groundnut, paddy, pulses, and bajra.

Farmers in Saurashtra and North Gujarat, predominantly growing groundnut and cotton, have particularly benefited as timely and adequate rains have enhanced sowing and crop development. This reliable water supply is also anticipated to foster a robust rabi season, especially for wheat, cumin, and mustard.

The state’s extensive dam infrastructure—over 200 major and medium reservoirs, with 113 under high alert this season—plays a vital role in flood control, irrigation, and water storage, ensuring both drinking and agricultural water supplies throughout the year.

Urban areas like Ahmedabad, Surat, and Vadodara have made investments in stormwater drainage systems, riverfront development, and flood management strategies, thereby mitigating the effects of heavy rains. Rural regions benefit from thousands of check dams, farm ponds, and watershed structures that enhance groundwater recharge and prevent drought conditions later.