Ahmedabad: The repair work of the Vasna Barrage on the Sabarmati River, which flows through Ahmedabad, has been completed in a record 35 days. The Mechanical Branch of the state’s Water Resources Department installed 19 new gates and repaired 10 existing gates at a cost of Rs. 10.15 crore. Following the completion of the work, water has started filling the Sabarmati River again, according to an official statement.

The Vasna Barrage, built in 1976, is a key structure for flood control and water management in Ahmedabad. During a pre-monsoon inspection conducted under the Dam Safety Act in 2025, the Mechanical Branch recommended renovation and repairs of the barrage gates. Based on these recommendations and keeping long-term safety in mind, work began on a war footing after the barrage was completely emptied on April 17, 2026.

The Mechanical Branch completed the fabrication of various gate components within four months. After the barrage was emptied, the replacement of 19 gates and repair of 10 others was completed in just 35 days with the help of five heavy-duty mobile cranes. The project was carried out at an estimated cost of Rs. 10.15 crore and involved the use of around 460 metric tonnes of structural steel.

Alongside the mechanical work, the Civil Department also undertook strengthening of the existing structure. Officials said such a project would normally take four to five months to complete, but was finished in just over a month. The process of filling the barrage up to the gate level has now begun.

The Vasna Barrage has a total of 30 gates, including 24 gates measuring 60 ft x 12 ft, two gates measuring 60 ft x 14 ft, and four gates measuring 60 ft x 16 ft. Over the years, 11 gates had been replaced as required, including three in 2010, two in 2011, five in 2013 and one in 2025.

Officials said the completion of the modernisation work will enhance the safety of the barrage during the monsoon season and help ensure adequate irrigation water supply for farmers in rural areas of Ahmedabad district in the future.

DeshGujarat