Flood threat looms as Yamuna nears danger mark in Capital

Following continuous rainfall in Himalayan states, the water level of the Yamuna on Thursday inched closer to the danger mark touching 205 meters at the Old Railway Bridge (Loha Pul) prompting fears of a possible flood if it keep on rising in the low-lying areas.

The alarming surge follows a sharp increase in water discharge from the Hathni Kund Barrage in Yamunanagar district, Haryana.

Until recently, the barrage was releasing around 20,000 cusecs of water per hour. On Wednesday evening, the figure increased significantly with 56,491 cusecs released at 4 am and 61,729 cusecs at 6 am.

It led to an increase in the water level of the river. Alarms have been sounded in the low-lying areas near the Yamuna floodplains.

The civic authorities have issued an urgent appeal to residents living along the river banks to move to safer locations. The appeal is directed especially to those living in the low-lying colonies such as Yamuna Bazar, Bela Estate, Monastery Market and parts of East Delhi that are prone to submersion during high tides.

The next three days are crucial. If the barrage continuing to release high volumes of water, low-lying areas could begin to flood, potentially affecting thousands.

Meanwhile, Delhi’s Minister for Irrigation and Flood Control Parvesh Sahib Singh on Thursday conducted an on-ground inspection to assess the rising water level of the Yamuna.

Speaking to the media during his visit, he said the situation was normal and under control. He assured that the department was fully prepared. “During this season, water level of the Yamuna typically rises. The department is fully alert and active. The situation is completely under control,” he said.