New Delhi: The Delhi government is closely monitoring the alarming situation as the water level in the Yamuna River continues to surge, posing a potential flood threat to low-lying areas of the national capital. The rising water levels are a result of the release of over 2 lakh cusecs of water from the Hathinikund Barrage, following heavy rainfall in parts of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

Yamuna may cross danger mark by Sunday evening, says Atishi

Delhi’s Revenue Minister, Atishi, issued a warning that the water level in the Yamuna River may surpass the danger mark by Sunday evening, according to the latest update from the Central Water Commission. She further emphasized that certain parts of the Yamuna Khadar region may face floods if the water level rises to 206.7.

#WATCH | Delhi: Yamuna’s water level crossed the danger mark, recorded at 205.81 meters at 7 am today.

Drone visuals from Old Yamuna Bridge (Loha Pul) pic.twitter.com/BK7q0IhjwV

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— ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2023

Delhi government’s preparedness, evacuation plans

In response to the looming threat, the Delhi government is fully prepared to carry out immediate evacuations in sensitive areas prone to flooding. Officials are continuously alerting and advising people in the possible flood-affected regions to remain vigilant. Thorough inspections of relief camps have been conducted, and comprehensive preparations have been made to handle the situation effectively in Central district, East district, Yamuna Bazar, and Yamuna Khadar.

The public is earnestly urged to stay vigilant and cooperate with authorities during this critical time. The Delhi government promises to provide regular updates and advisories to keep citizens informed about the evolving situation.

#WATCH | Delhi: Flood-affected victims take shelter in a relief camp in Ring Road

Water level of Yamuna River has increased again, recorded at 205.75 m pic.twitter.com/jyZtV7Stbj

— ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2023

Concerns over water supply

Officials from the Delhi Irrigation and Flood Control Department have expressed concerns over the water supply in the city, stating that the heavy rains may affect the functioning of pump houses. In the past, the Wazirabad pump house was affected for almost five days after the first flood in Delhi. This pump house supplies water to Wazirabad, Chandrawal, and Okhla treatment plants, constituting approximately 25 percent of the city’s supply.

Ongoing heavy rainfall predictions

The situation remains critical as the India Meteorological Department forecasts heavy to very heavy rainfall in parts of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand until July 25. These predictions indicate the continuation of heavy rainfall in the upper reaches of the Yamuna, potentially exacerbating the flood situation in Delhi.

The Delhi government and concerned authorities are leaving no stone unturned to tackle the impending flood threat and ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens. Vigilance and cooperation from the public are vital during this challenging time, as the city prepares to face the impact of the rising Yamuna water level and the continuous rainfall in the region.