Delhi's Historic Loha Pul Shuts Down as Yamuna Swells Amidst Torrential Rains

Delhi's iconic Old Yamuna Bridge, affectionately known as 'Loha Pul' (Iron Bridge), has once again become a focal point of concern as authorities took the precautionary step of closing it for both rail and road traffic. The decision comes amidst a dramatic surge in the Yamuna River's water level, which has breached the danger mark following a relentless spell of heavy rainfall in the region and upstream.

Officials confirmed that the crucial bridge was shut down on Monday morning, effective immediately.

The water level in the Yamuna River at the Old Railway Bridge was recorded at a concerning 206.01 meters at 10:00 AM on Monday, significantly above the designated danger mark of 205.33 meters. This alarming rise prompted the swift action from Delhi authorities and Northern Railway to prioritize public safety and prevent any potential hazards.

The closure has led to immediate disruptions.

Train movements across the bridge have been suspended, necessitating re-routing and delays for several services. Simultaneously, road traffic, which typically uses the lower deck of the Loha Pul, has been diverted, adding to the city's traffic management challenges during this period of high alert.

The current situation mirrors events from July last year when the Yamuna River reached an unprecedented high of 208.66 meters, leading to widespread flooding in several parts of the national capital.

The city has been experiencing heavy rainfall, compounded by downpours in neighboring states like Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, which contribute significantly to the Yamuna's flow.

While the immediate impact is traffic disruption and commuter inconvenience, the long-term objective of these measures is to safeguard critical infrastructure and, most importantly, human lives.

Authorities are closely monitoring the water levels and have assured that the bridge will remain closed until the situation normalizes and it is deemed safe for operations again. Residents are advised to stay informed about official advisories and plan their commutes accordingly.