Rajpipla, Gujarat: Narmada Dam overflowed today on the auspicious ninth day of Navratri, marking a moment of celebration across Gujarat. The water level crossed 138.68 meters, and as a precautionary measure, authorities opened five gates of the dam, releasing nearly 60,000 cusecs of water into the downstream river. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel visited the site to offer prayers to Maa Narmada and extended greetings to the people of the state on this historic occasion.
A Spiritual Celebration at the Dam
Chief Minister Patel performed special rituals at the dam site, offering coconuts, flowers, and a traditional chunri to Maa Narmada. The event was attended by several dignitaries including MPs, MLAs, district officials, and local leaders. The festive atmosphere, combined with the overflowing of the dam on Navami, added religious and cultural significance to the moment.
Water Level Reaches Maximum Capacity
The Sardar Sarovar Dam, often referred to as the lifeline of Gujarat, touched its near-full capacity during this monsoon season. Currently, the water level stands at 138.68 meters, just 35 centimeters below the maximum permissible height. The inflow from upstream reservoirs such as Indirasagar and Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh has contributed significantly to this rise.
At present, inflows into the dam are recorded at 47,000 cusecs, while around 42,000 cusecs are being discharged through the Riverbed Power House turbines. Additionally, about 4,000 cusecs are being released into canals, ensuring that inflow and outflow remain balanced to maintain rule levels.
Fifth Time in History
This is the fifth time since Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the dam to the nation that its water level has touched the maximum mark. Interestingly, last year too, the dam overflowed on the first day of Navratri (October 1, 2024). This year, the reservoir has reached a total water storage capacity of 9,460 million cubic meters.
Gujarat’s Water Concerns Eased
With Narmada Dam overflowed today, the state’s long-standing concerns about water supply have eased. The reservoir is now 98% full, securing drinking and irrigation water for the coming year. Officials confirmed that over 10,000 villages, 183 towns, and seven municipal corporations, benefiting nearly 40 million people, will have adequate water supply until next summer.
Farmers in the Narmada command area will receive sufficient irrigation for their rabi crops. Water will also be supplied to critical projects such as the SAUNI Yojana in Saurashtra and the Sujalam Sufalam project in North Gujarat.
Contribution to Power and Irrigation
The Sardar Sarovar project has built an extensive canal network of 63,000 kilometers, carrying Narmada waters as far as the arid Kutch region. The release of water from upstream has also boosted power generation at the Riverbed Power House, ensuring additional electricity supply to Gujarat and neighboring states.
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Heavy Inflows from Madhya Pradesh
The impressive water level is mainly due to heavy rainfall in Madhya Pradesh. On September 30, the dam’s level was close to its maximum, with inflows recorded at more than 1.13 lakh cusecs. Out of this, 64,400 cusecs came from Indirasagar Dam and 60,117 cusecs from Omkareshwar Dam. Such massive inflows have kept the Sardar Sarovar reservoir brimming.
Historical Significance
The dam, equipped with 30 radial gates installed in 2017, now boasts a maximum height of 138.68 meters. Over the years, it has transformed into a symbol of Gujarat’s water security and agricultural prosperity. Each time it overflows, it is celebrated as a milestone not only for irrigation and drinking water supply but also as a cultural and spiritual event deeply tied to the faith of the people.
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Leaders and Officials Mark the Occasion
The ceremonial event at Rajpipla was attended by senior leaders, including MP Mansukh Vasava, MLA Dr. Darshana Deshmukh, and other district officials. The presence of these dignitaries highlighted the importance of the dam, not just as an infrastructure project but as an emotional and cultural symbol for the people of Gujarat.
Benefits for Agriculture and Industry
With the dam full, Gujarat is now well-prepared to meet the water demands of agriculture, industry, and domestic use. Farmers across the command area will get timely irrigation, while industries will have a stable water supply. Additionally, rivers and lakes across the state will receive replenishment, ensuring ecological balance.
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Conclusion
The fact that Narmada Dam overflowed today on the sacred ninth day of Navratri has brought double joy to the people of Gujarat. On one hand, it ensures water security for millions; on the other, it strengthens cultural faith in Maa Narmada. The sight of the overflowing dam has become a moment of pride, reflecting the state’s progress in water management, agriculture, and sustainable development.
