Tapi River Rages, Submerges Surat Causeway as Ukai Dam Releases Water

Surat | Gujarat — The diamond city of Surat is under a state of high alert as the Tapi river, swollen by incessant rains in its catchment areas, has assumed a terrifying and turbulent form. The release of a staggering 1.25 lakh cusecs of water from the Ukai dam has caused the river to overflow its banks, creating a scene of nature’s raw power that has put the entire district on red alert for the next 48 hours.

The most dramatic visual of the river’s fury is the complete disappearance of the weir-cum-causeway that connects Rander and Singanpore. Once a vital link for daily commuters, the causeway is now submerged under a raging torrent of water. Aerial views show a terrifying picture of the current, a powerful stream that demonstrates the sheer strength of the Tapi and the unyielding force of nature.

The danger level for the causeway is 6 meters, but it is currently overflowing at a dangerous 8.32 meters—a full two and a half meters above the safety mark. The continuous flow of water from the Ukai dam has sent alarm bells ringing among authorities, who are closely monitoring the situation.

“We have issued a red alert for the entire district,” a spokesperson from the district administration stated. “Our primary concern is the safety of our citizens. We are continuously monitoring the water levels and have appealed to all residents, especially those in low-lying areas along the river banks, to exercise extreme caution and cooperate with the authorities.”

The turbulent river has already had a significant impact on public life. Parts of the city, including Katargam, Dabholi, Vedroad, and Singanpur, are struggling with knee-deep water. Local shopkeepers and motorists are facing immense hardship as roads become impassable, disrupting traffic and daily routines. The city is grappling with a waterlogged situation that has thrown daily life into chaos.

“It’s a nightmare to get around,” said Jignesh Patel, a local shop owner in Katargam. “The water came up so fast. We’ve had to close our shop for the day because no one can get here. It’s not just the inconvenience; it’s the constant fear of what could happen next.”

The authorities have issued a strong warning to residents to stay away from the river banks. The rising water level has crossed the danger mark, and officials have emphasized that no one should attempt to enter the river or venture near its banks.