The water level of the Yamuna River in Delhi surged to 205.10 metres on Friday morning, just short of the official danger mark of 205.33 metres at the Old Railway Bridge. A day earlier, it stood at 204.88 metres, crossing the warning level of 204.50 metres.
In response to the rising water levels, officials have issued an alert to all concerned agencies so that they can prepare for possible evacuation in low-lying areas.
Rising Monsoon Rains Trigger Nationwide Flood Alerts
The sharp rise in the Yamuna comes after continuous rainfall during this year’s monsoon season. The national capital region, along with other parts of India, is witnessing prolonged waterlogging and flood-like conditions.
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According to the district magistrate East office’s flood control bulletin, the water discharge from Hathnikund Barrage was 24,613 cusecs, while it was 46,290 cusecs at Wazirabad Barrage on Friday at 8 am.
“Water discharge at Hathnikund Barrage was recorded at 24,613 cusecs and 46,290 cusecs at Wazirabad Barrage on Friday at 8 am,” the bulletin stated.
The Old Railway Bridge remains a crucial observation point for tracking the Yamuna’s rise. If and when the water touches 206 metres, evacuations will begin. Back in 2023, the river had reached a record 208.66 metres.
Authorities on High Alert; Relocation Plans Ready
Irrigation and flood control officials are warning nearly 12,000 people in low-lying areas near the river. Sub-divisional magistrates are monitoring the situation closely.
“Plans are in place to safely relocate people to secure areas if necessary,” an official added. Announcements are also being made along the riverbanks to inform and warn residents.
Water released from the Hathnikund Barrage usually takes 48 to 50 hours to reach Delhi, giving officials a small window for response.
Ganga Swells in Varanasi and Prayagraj
The impact of the monsoon rains is not limited to Delhi. In Uttar Pradesh, Varanasi and Prayagraj have been severely hit by intense rainfall. Overflowing drains and waterlogging have disrupted daily life in both cities.
In Varanasi, the Ganga is flowing close to the danger mark. The Central Water Commission reported that the river reached 69.98 metres on Saturday, just short of the 71.26-metre danger level. Boat services on the Ganga have been suspended.
River Touches Lord Shiva Idol in Rishikesh
In Uttarakhand’s Rishikesh, the rising Ganga reached the idol of Lord Shiva at Parmarth Niketan Ashram’s Aarti Sthal after days of relentless showers.
Himachal Pradesh, meanwhile, continues to suffer heavy monsoon damage. The State Disaster Management Authority reported 199 deaths and total losses of ₹1,905.5 crore from June 20 to August 6 this year.
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