Ahmedabad, September 2025: Residents of Ahmedabad and nearby regions have been put on high alert after 25 gates of the Sabarmati dam were opened to release excess water following continuous rainfall. The move has caused a sharp rise in water levels, flooding the riverfront walkways and sparking safety warnings from authorities.
The Sabarmati Riverfront, usually a bustling tourist spot, has now turned into a danger zone, with municipal teams urging people to stay away from the banks. Officials have also issued alerts for low-lying areas as more inflows are expected from upstream.
Why Were 25 Gates of the Sabarmati Dam Opened?
According to the Irrigation Department, heavy rains in the catchment areas have led to a massive water inflow into the Sabarmati reservoir. To prevent damage to the dam structure and ensure smooth flow, engineers had no option but to open 25 gates simultaneously.
- Water discharge: The released water is flowing directly into the Sabarmati River, raising its level rapidly.
- Flood control measure: Opening the gates helps maintain the safety of the dam but increases flood risk in nearby areas.
- Impact on city: The water has already submerged the lower promenade of the Sabarmati Riverfront.
Areas Under Flood Alert in Ahmedabad
The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has issued flood alerts to residents living near the river and in low-lying areas, warning them to remain cautious.
The key areas under watch include:
- Ellis Bridge and Nehru Bridge zones
- Paldi, Shahpur, and Sabarmati areas
- Riverfront parks and walkways
- Settlements close to the riverbanks
AMC has also deployed rescue and emergency response teams in vulnerable neighborhoods to ensure rapid evacuation if water levels rise further.
Officials Urge People to Stay Away from Riverfront
Authorities have strictly advised citizens not to visit or take selfies at the flooded riverfront.
- Police barricades have been placed near entry points.
- Loudspeaker announcements are being made to warn locals and tourists.
- Drone surveillance is also being used to monitor gatherings near the river.
“The Sabarmati River is flowing above danger levels. We request residents to stay away from the water and follow official safety guidelines,” said an AMC spokesperson.
Impact on Daily Life in Ahmedabad
The sudden flood-like situation has disrupted daily life across the city:
- Traffic diversions are being enforced near low-lying roads close to the river.
- Several shops and small businesses near the riverbank have been shut temporarily.
- Public transport routes are witnessing delays due to congestion.
- Residents of slum settlements near the river have been shifted to temporary shelters.
Emergency Measures by Government
The Gujarat government has activated its State Disaster Management teams, along with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in Ahmedabad.
Key steps taken so far:
- Setting up relief camps for displaced families
- 24×7 control rooms for citizens to report emergencies
- Monitoring the dam’s inflow and outflow on an hourly basis
- Preparing rescue boats and medical teams for emergencies
Voices from the Ground
Local residents expressed both concern and relief over the timely alerts.
- Ramesh Patel, a shopkeeper near Paldi, said: “We closed our shop early after police warned us. The water is rising fast, and safety is more important.”
- Neha Shah, a resident of Sabarmati area, added: “The alerts helped us prepare. We moved valuables upstairs and are ready to shift if needed.”
The Bigger Picture: Sabarmati Floods and Climate Challenges
This is not the first time Ahmedabad has faced such a flood scare. Experts note that climate change and erratic rainfall patterns are leading to more frequent high inflows in dams across Gujarat.
Environmental analysts warn that:
- Urban flooding risks in Ahmedabad are growing due to heavy construction along the riverfront.
- Better drainage systems and real-time water management are crucial to avoid large-scale damage in future.
- Citizens must take warnings seriously, as sudden water releases from dams can be unpredictable.
What Citizens Should Do Now
Authorities have shared safety guidelines for Ahmedabad residents:
- Avoid visiting or crossing flooded zones.
- Follow AMC’s official alerts and helpline updates.
- Shift valuables and essentials to higher floors.
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy.
- Parents should keep children away from the riverfront.
Conclusion
The opening of 25 Sabarmati dam gates has once again reminded Ahmedabad of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness. While the city is on high alert, coordinated efforts by AMC, disaster teams, and citizen cooperation can minimize damage.
For now, all eyes remain on the weather forecast and dam inflows—any further rainfall could push the situation into a serious flood threat.