Gujarat’s Ukai Dam has reached around 80% of its storage capacity this monsoon, marking the first time in seven years that the reservoir has not filled completely.

The dam’s water level is currently about 337 feet, compared with its maximum level of 345 feet. It holds approximately 5,367 million cubic meters of water against its total capacity of 6,730 million cubic meters.

Despite the lower storage, farmers’ representatives and officials said there is no immediate threat to drinking-water, industrial or irrigation supplies. The current stock is considered sufficient to meet drinking-water needs over the coming year.

The Surat Municipal Corporation draws nearly 1,500 millionlitersper day from the dam. Water supplies in Navsari and nearby areas also depend on Ukai.

Authorities have warned that conservation will be important over the next two years. If the 2027 monsoon is weak or delayed, restrictions or rationing could become necessary during 2027–28.

The Right Bank Canal will remain closed from November 1 to February 1, 2027, for repairs. The canal is around 60–70 years old, and the shutdown may affect irrigation for approximately 1.76 lakh hectares of winter crops.

Farmers were informed about the closure in advance and have adjusted their crop plans by relying on borewells, wells or less water-intensive rabi crops.