Yamuna river in Delhi crosses danger mark; all 18 gates of Hathnikund barrage opened

The Yamuna river is projected to reach 206 metres by August 19, surpassing the danger mark of 205.33 metres, according to an advisory from the Central Water Commission (CWC).

This level could trigger evacuation measures, which are set in motion when the river hits the 206-metre threshold.

As of 7 am on Monday, the water level at the Old Railway Bridge stood at 204.8 metres, rising from 204.6 metres on Sunday evening. The warning mark is 204.5 metres, and the river has remained above that level for two consecutive days.

Authorities have confirmed that all relevant agencies are on alert, and precautionary measures are in place to manage the evolving situation.

The Old Railway Bridge remains a critical observation point for monitoring flood risks in the capital.

The rise in water level is mainly due to heavy discharge from the Wazirabad and Hathnikund barrages. As of now, 58,282 cusecs are being released from Hathnikund—the highest this season—and 36,170 cusecs from Wazirabad every hour. Water released upstream generally takes 48 to 50 hours to reach Delhi.

Due to the situation, all 18 gates of the Hathnikund Barrage have been opened for the first time this season.

Other rivers, including the Ganga, are also witnessing a surge in water levels. Vijay Garg, Executive Engineer of the Irrigation Department, confirmed that 1.78 lakh cusecs of water has entered the river due to recent heavy rain, making it the highest level recorded this season.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department issued a nowcast warning predicting rain, thunderstorms, and lightning across parts of Haryana and Punjab. Affected areas in Haryana include Karnal, Indri, Thanesar and Ambala, while Punjab districts such as Patiala, Mohali, and Ludhiana are expected to receive rain. With inputs from agencies