After deadly dry summer, Sukhna water level reaches 1,161 feet

After almost drying up in peak summer, Sukhna Lake has witnessed a revival with the water level touching 1,161 feet today. In case the level rises by two more feet, it would require opening up of the flood gates. Over the past few days, the Sukhna has been receiving a steady flow of water from the catchment area.

During summer, the lake had been at one of its driest stages. The boating area kept shrinking and eventually boating had to be stopped completely. The death of aquatic life too had been a cause of concern. The late arrival of the monsoons and inadequate rainfall added to the woes.

As rainfall increased, the water bodies in the catchment area started filling up. Some of the water bodies are now completely full and the flow has been going on from the catchment. This has led to an increase in the water level.

Former Punjab Irrigation Department chief engineer G S Dhillon said that the water level should be carefully monitored and gates opened at the right time. He added that there is need for proper maintenance of the radial gates as well.

A study is on to measure the level in the catchment in the months when rainfall is less. The study would go on till June next year. More than 150 silt retention dams are constructed in the catchment area. Water from here enters the lake once the water bodies get filled up and overflow. During summer this year, the lake had almost completely dried up, with even patches of land emerging.