Delhi on high alert as swelling Yamuna renews fear of floods

The Delhi government is on high alert as the water level of river Yamuna, which recently caused floods in the national capital, swelled following the discharge of over 2 lakh cusecs of water from the Hathnikund Barrage on Saturday due to torrential rains in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

While the water level in Yamuna was recorded at 206.7 m on Saturday, it went down to 205.75 m on Sunday morning.

Also read: Swollen Yamuna: Heavy rains in upper reaches may cause more flooding in Delhi

While the rise in water level is expected to hinder relief and rehabilitation work in flood-affected areas of Delhi, the government has warned that the level may cross the danger mark by Sunday evening.

In a statement, Revenue Minister Atishi on Saturday (July 22) said some parts of Yamuna Khadar (floodplains) might get inundated if the water level in the river rises to 206.7 m, but she assured that the government is ready for evacuation.

According to Central Water Commission (CWC) data, the flow rate at the Yamunanagar-located Hathnikund Barrage crossed the 1 lakh-mark at 9 am and oscillated between 2 lakh and 2.5 lakh cusecs between 10 am and 4 pm.

The India Meteorological Department has predicted heavy to very heavy rain in parts of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand till July 25.

Govt ready to handle situation: Atishi

Atishi said regular munadi (announcement) is being done in vulnerable areas to inform residents about the threat of flooding. Relief camps have been inspected and preparations made for people to stay there.

“The Delhi government is on high alert due to the discharge of more than 2 lakh cusecs of water from the Hathnikund Barrage into the Yamuna river,” she said.

Also read: Delhi: Yamuna breaches danger mark again after rains in NCR, upper reaches of river

“The situation has sparked concern, prompting the government to take proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the residents,” she added.

Atishi said Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been closely monitoring the developments and overseeing the response efforts.

The Department of Revenue has undertaken extensive measures to tackle the situation effectively, she said.

“Whether it’s the Central district, Eastern district or areas like Yamuna Bazar and Yamuna Khadar, we have made sufficient preparations to address any challenges that may arise,” she said.

The Delhi government appeals to the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with the authorities during this critical time. Updates and advisories will be regularly provided to keep the residents informed about the evolving situation, the minister said.

Also read: No danger but don’t go home yet: Delhi govt to evacuees as Yamuna rises again

Parts of Delhi have been grappling with waterlogging and flooding for more than a week now. Initially, a downpour caused intense waterlogging on July 8 and 9, with the city receiving 125 per cent of its monthly rainfall quota in just two days.

Subsequently, heavy rains in the upper catchment areas of the Yamuna, including in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Haryana, led to the river swelling to a record 208.66 metres on July 13.

(With inputs from agencies)