Heavy rainfall in Chandigarh has once again pushed water levels at Sukhna Lake beyond the danger mark, compelling the authorities to open the floodgates for the eighth time this monsoon season — a record in recent years. According to officials, the lake, which usually requires occasional release during heavy downpours, has been witnessing unprecedented inflow due to consistent and intense spells of rain across the region. This latest move comes as a precautionary step to prevent waterlogging in low-lying areas and to safeguard the structural safety of the lake. Residents living near the lake and in adjoining sectors were informed in advance, as the release of excess water could impact drainage systems and increase the risk of flash flooding in certain pockets of the city.
The development has drawn attention to the changing rainfall patterns in Chandigarh and the surrounding foothills, raising fresh concerns about urban planning and flood preparedness. Environmentalists have pointed out that the repeated opening of floodgates is not just a rare event but a signal of shifting weather trends, possibly linked to climate change. City authorities, meanwhile, have assured citizens that adequate arrangements are in place to manage the flow of released water. Still, the news highlights the need for better infrastructure, improved drainage networks, and long-term strategies to tackle such extreme weather situations in the future.