Chandigarh: With the water level in Sukhna Lake rising to 1,162.95 feet following ongoing monsoon rains, the UT engineering department on Saturday opened Radial Gate No. 1 by three inches at 8.30pm to regulate the lake level and release excess water.As a precautionary measure, the deputy commissioners of Chandigarh, SAS Nagar (Mohali) and Panchkula have been asked to remain alert and take necessary steps in downstream areas in view of the controlled release of water from the lake.Officials said the engineering department has put in place round-the-clock monitoring arrangements at the regulator end of the lake. Staff have been deployed to continuously monitor water levels during the monsoon season and ensure timely action whenever required.The administration said all preventive and precautionary measures are being taken to avoid flooding and effectively regulate the lake level. The arrangements are aimed at preventing any damage to govt property and public infrastructure due to the inflow of water from Sukhna’s catchment area.The engineering department is closely monitoring the situation and will take further action depending on weather conditions and changes in the lake’s water level.With intermittent rainfall continuing in the region, officials said constant surveillance is being maintained to ensure that any rise in water level is managed in a timely manner and that downstream areas remain safe.
