New Delhi, September 4 – The Yamuna river in Delhi has once again surged to dangerous levels following continuous rainfall in northern states, prompting large-scale evacuations across the national capital. Thousands of people living in low-lying areas along the riverbanks have been shifted to relief camps, as authorities warn that the flood situation may worsen in the coming days.
Yamuna Crosses Danger Mark
According to the Central Water Commission (CWC), the Yamuna crossed the danger mark of 205.33 meters late Tuesday night, sparking alarm in several districts of the capital. Floodwater inundated roads, houses, and agricultural fields, disrupting normal life for residents in east and northeast Delhi.
Officials have deployed rescue teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) to carry out evacuations. Boats and temporary shelters have been set up to assist affected families.
Relief and Evacuation Measures
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal confirmed that over 15,000 residents have been evacuated so far and shifted to government-run relief camps. Food, water, and medical aid are being provided at these shelters.
“We are monitoring the Yamuna levels closely. All agencies are on high alert to ensure safety. I appeal to people in flood-prone areas to cooperate with evacuation efforts,” Kejriwal said.
Schools in flood-affected zones have been ordered shut until further notice. Traffic diversions have also been implemented on key roads near the Yamuna floodplains.
IMD Forecast Raises Concerns
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of more rainfall in the upper catchment areas of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Haryana over the next 48 hours. Officials fear that additional inflow of water into the Yamuna could push the river levels further up, worsening the flood situation in Delhi.
“Water being released from the Hathni Kund Barrage in Haryana is contributing to the rising levels of the Yamuna in Delhi. We advise people to remain alert and avoid venturing near the riverbanks,” said a CWC official.
Past Flooding Incidents
This is not the first time Delhi has faced flooding due to the Yamuna breaching danger levels. In July 2023, the river swelled to a record 208.66 meters, causing widespread inundation and displacing more than 40,000 people. The current situation, though slightly less severe, has raised fears of similar disruptions.
Humanitarian Impact
Many families living in makeshift homes along the Yamuna floodplains have lost their belongings to the rising waters. Relief organizations and volunteers are working alongside government agencies to distribute essential supplies.
“We left everything behind and came here with only our children. The government is helping us with food, but we don’t know when we can return home,” said Sunita Devi, a resident of low-lying Usmanpur.
Authorities on High Alert
The Delhi government has requested assistance from the central government, with additional NDRF teams placed on standby. Police personnel are patrolling sensitive areas to prevent residents from returning to their inundated homes until the water recedes.
Meanwhile, health departments have issued advisories to prevent outbreaks of waterborne diseases such as cholera, diarrhea, and dengue, which often follow flooding events in the city.
Key Takeaways
- Yamuna river crosses danger mark, flooding low-lying areas of Delhi.
- 15,000+ residents evacuated and shifted to relief camps.
- IMD warns of more rainfall in catchment areas, raising fears of worsening floods.
- Government agencies working round the clock to provide aid and safety.
In summary, the Yamuna river’s surge in Delhi has forced thousands into relief camps as authorities battle to minimize damage and ensure safety. With heavy rainfall expected upstream, the situation remains tense, and residents have been urged to stay vigilant until the water recedes.