Monsoon magic: Upper lake overflows, water gushes from Bhadbhada Dam, delighting Bhopal residents

BHOPAL: Water flowed from Bhadbhada Dam early Saturday morning for the first time this monsoon, delighting Bhopal residents as the Upper Lake approached its maximum capacity after overnight rain.A single sluice gate of the ancient Upper Lake was raised early Saturday following intense rainfall in the Kolans catchment region. This anticipated seasonal occurrence arrived unusually in September, marking a significant moment for the city's residents.At 10:30 AM, as water levels approached the lake's full capacity of 1668.60 feet, authorities activated one gate of the Bhadbhada Dam. The rain-swollen Kolans River from Sehore contributed to this rise.

Subsequently, approximately 50 million cubic feet (MCFT) of water was discharged within the first hour, bringing the lake level to 1666.80 feet.Although the dam features 13 sluice gates, a full-scale opening appears unlikely this season. A Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) engineer stated, "Since we're nearing the end of the monsoon season, the gate will remain open only as long as the rainfall persists."While September releases are unusual, they have previously occurred.

News of the opening attracted numerous Bhopal residents to Bhadbhada Dam to observe the event.Downstream, the nearby Kaliasot Dam experienced increased levels as well. The irrigation department maintains this dam at 60% capacity and has operated its gates several times this year. Authorities confirmed the Bhadbhada gate's operation would continue throughout the duration of rainfall.