Yamuna’s water level crosses warning mark in Delhi, official says grave situation unlikely | Delhi News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Following heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas of the Yamuna river over the past two days, the water level in Delhi has surpassed the warning mark of 204.50 meters. As reported by the Central Water Commission, the water level at the Old Railway Bridge increased from 203.48 meters on Monday at 3 pm to 204.94 meters on Tuesday at 6pm.

The flow rate at the Hathnikund barrage in Haryana’s Yamunanagar district is currently at 30,153 cusecs, which is considered moderate during the monsoon season.
Officials from the Delhi government’s irrigation and flood control department have indicated that while some low-level flooding might occur along the river, a severe situation is unlikely.

In Himachal Pradesh, heavy rainfall has led to devastating consequences, claiming the lives of at least 57 people. Uttarakhand also experienced torrential rain over the past two days, causing destruction to buildings and triggering landslides that disrupted national highways leading to significant shrines.
The recent flooding in Delhi during mid-July was attributed to encroachments on the river’s floodplain, intense rainfall over a short period, and sediment accumulation that elevated the riverbed. During that period, the Yamuna river reached a record height of 208.66 meters on July 13, breaching its previous records and causing substantial damage.
Low-lying areas in Delhi, inhabited by around 41,000 people, are known to be susceptible to flooding. Despite the land being owned by various entities such as the Delhi Development Authority, the revenue department, and private individuals, encroachments on the river’s floodplain have continued over the years. The city’s northeastern, eastern, central, and southeastern districts are among the most flood-affected areas.
It’s important to note that the Yamuna river system’s catchment spans across multiple states, including Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Delhi.
(With inputs from PTI)