Delhi Holds Its Breath: Yamuna Surges, Threatening Low-Lying Areas

Delhi is on high alert as the Yamuna River continues its relentless surge, with water levels rapidly approaching the critical evacuation mark. Fueled by incessant rainfall in the river's upper catchment areas, particularly Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, the capital city braces for a potential flood crisis that could displace thousands and disrupt daily life.

The latest readings show the Yamuna flowing perilously close to the 206-meter evacuation threshold, having already surpassed the danger mark of 205.33 meters.

Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, as a massive discharge of water from the Hathnikund Barrage in Haryana continues to swell the river downstream, sending a cascading flow towards the capital.

Low-lying areas along the riverbanks, particularly those prone to inundation, are under immediate threat.

Residents in these vulnerable pockets have been issued urgent advisories, with disaster management teams preparing for large-scale evacuations if the water level crosses the critical mark. Control rooms have been activated, and teams are on standby, ready to deploy resources and ensure the safety of affected communities, establishing temporary shelters and relief camps.

The city remembers the devastating floods of 2013, when the Yamuna reached an alarming 207.32 meters, leading to widespread displacement and significant damage.

While the current levels haven't yet matched that extreme, the rapid ascent is a cause for serious concern, prompting an all-hands-on-deck approach from the Delhi administration to mitigate potential disaster.

Officials are appealing to the public, especially those residing near the river, to remain vigilant, cooperate with authorities, and adhere to all safety guidelines.

The coming hours are crucial as the city watches the Yamuna's powerful flow, hoping for a reprieve from the monsoon's fury and a safe passage through this challenging period of heightened alert and uncertainty.