Delhi on Brink: Yamuna Breaches Danger Mark, Flood Threat Grips Capital

Delhi is on edge as the Yamuna River has surged past its danger mark, triggering a high-level flood alert across the capital. The iconic river, a lifeline for the city, has reached a critical level of 205.48 meters at the Old Railway Bridge, significantly exceeding the danger threshold of 205.33 meters.

This alarming rise, fuelled by relentless water discharge from the Hathnikund Barrage in Haryana, has put Delhi on high alert, with authorities bracing for a potentially severe flood-like situation.

The situation escalated rapidly, with experts predicting a further increase in water levels. The Delhi government has swung into action, with Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal convening emergency meetings to assess the preparedness and strategize the response.

Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, CM Kejriwal has appealed to the central government for intervention, highlighting the critical role of managing water release from the Hathnikund Barrage to mitigate the crisis in Delhi.

As a precautionary measure, urgent evacuation orders have been issued for residents residing in the low-lying floodplains and areas adjacent to the river.

Teams from the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) and other emergency services are actively working to move people to safer ground, setting up relief camps and ensuring the provision of essential services. The administration is focused on minimizing risks and ensuring the safety of thousands of families whose homes are vulnerable to inundation.

The specter of previous floods looms large, particularly the devastating events of 2013 when the Yamuna reached an unprecedented 207.32 meters, its highest level since 1978.

While the current levels have not yet matched those historical highs, the continuous inflow from upstream barrages combined with monsoon rains has created a volatile scenario. Officials are closely monitoring the hourly water level reports and coordinating efforts to manage the flow effectively.

Residents in affected areas are urged to cooperate with evacuation efforts and remain vigilant.

The Delhi government assures that it is fully prepared to handle any exigency, deploying resources and personnel to ensure a swift and coordinated response. Public safety remains the paramount concern as the capital watches the rising Yamuna, hoping for a reprieve from the relentless upstream discharges and monsoon downpours.