Chandigarh Rain: Sukhna Lake floodgates in Chandigarh opened for the 8th time this monsoon after heavy rain. UT admin on alert as water crosses danger mark.
Chandigarh: In a rare occurrence, the Sukhna Lake floodgates were opened for the eighth time this monsoon season, setting a new record for the Union Territory. Continuous overnight rainfall pushed the water level beyond the danger mark, forcing the UT Administration to release excess water into the Ghaggar river.
According to officials, the water level at Sukhna Lake rose above the danger mark of 1,163 feet early this morning. In response, the administration opened two of the three floodgates to prevent overflow and flooding in surrounding areas. The first gate was opened at 7:30 am, followed by the second gate at 9:00 am. This marks the eighth floodgate release of 2025’s monsoon season, with earlier openings recorded on August 30, 29, 19, 17, 15, 8, and 6.
The frequency of floodgate openings this year has been notably higher compared to the past few years. The floodgates were opened four times in 2023, six times in 2022, and five times in 2021. This year’s record eighth opening highlights the intensity of the 2025 monsoon rains in Chandigarh.
To ensure public safety and proper coordination, the UT Engineering Department has deployed officials at the regulator end of the lake round-the-clock. CCTV cameras have been installed to monitor water levels, while a control room has been set up to maintain communication with the administrations of Chandigarh, Mohali, and Panchkula. Neighboring district authorities were alerted in advance before the floodgates were opened.
The opening of Sukhna Lake floodgates has always been a significant event for the region. In August 2020, releasing two floodgates caused flooding in the low-lying areas of Zirakpur along the Sukhna Choe. On September 24, 2018, the floodgates were opened after a gap of nearly a decade.
While the release of water into the Ghaggar river via Sukhna Choe helps prevent lake overflow, it also raises concerns about flooding in adjoining low-lying regions. Authorities have assured that all precautionary measures are in place to handle emergencies.
The record-breaking eighth floodgate opening of Sukhna Lake this monsoon is a stark reminder of the unpredictability of weather patterns in the region. With Chandigarh experiencing heavier-than-usual rainfall, authorities remain on high alert to safeguard residents while balancing ecological concerns.