Yamuna Water Level Rising, Authorities Issue Warning
Delhi authorities have asked residents of the Yamuna floodplain to move to safer locations as the river’s water level continues to rise. Officials warned that the level could touch the evacuation mark of 206 metres by Tuesday evening.
On Monday afternoon, the Yamuna reached 204.87 metres at the Old Railway Bridge (ORB). The steady rise followed heavy discharge from the Hathnikund Barrage, which released more than 3.29 lakh cusecs of water at 9 am. Simultaneously, the Wazirabad barrage discharged nearly 38,900 cusecs, according to the Irrigation and Flood Control Department.
A government document cautioned that with continued inflows and heavy rain in the upper catchment areas, the water level could cross 206 metres between 5 pm and 8 pm on September 2.
Administration on High Alert
Delhi Divisional Commissioner Neeraj Semwal said the administration expects the Yamuna to swell beyond 206 metres before receding. He stressed that all district magistrates have been instructed to prepare for food supplies, electricity backup, and relief camps.
“We are prepared in case the water level rises further. Monitoring of the Okhla barrage outflow is underway. Balance will be maintained if water continues to flow,” Semwal told reporters.
He expressed hope that Delhi will avoid a repeat of the 2023 flooding crisis, when the Yamuna’s surge caused widespread displacement and traffic paralysis.
Semwal added that most vulnerable areas lie in east and northeast Delhi, where floodplain residents are already being cautioned. “Some families have been shifted to safety, but many farmers are reluctant to leave, hoping the water will recede. We are motivating them to move, and food arrangements have been made in relief centres,” he said.
Barrage Discharges and Their Impact
Water discharged from the Hathnikund Barrage in Haryana typically takes 48 to 50 hours to reach Delhi. Officials noted that even smaller releases from upstream are contributing to the rising levels.
The district magistrate of southeast Delhi has visited the Okhla barrage and is in contact with Uttar Pradesh authorities, who control its operations. Coordination is being maintained to increase water outflow if required.
The IMD has already predicted heavy rainfall in north India, which could add pressure to Delhi’s already swelling Yamuna. With major rivers in spate, authorities are keeping constant watch to prevent breaches in embankments and sudden flooding in low-lying areas.
Lessons from 2023 and Preparedness
Last year, Delhi faced its worst flooding in decades as the Yamuna crossed 208.6 metres, leading to large-scale evacuations and major traffic disruptions. Thousands were forced into makeshift shelters, while waterlogging crippled transport and power supply in several districts.
Learning from that experience, officials this year claim to have made advance preparations. Relief camps have been set up in school buildings and community centres, while boats and rescue teams are on standby.
Public announcements are being made in vulnerable areas, urging residents not to wait until the last moment. Authorities are also deploying volunteers to help elderly citizens and families with young children relocate safely.
Semwal confirmed that district teams are keeping a close eye on embankments, power supply lines, and key bridges to avoid unexpected disruptions.
Residents Remain Wary
Despite the warnings, many residents are hesitant to leave the floodplain. Farmers in particular prefer to stay back to safeguard their crops and livestock. Authorities are engaging with them to ensure safety, stressing that life must come before livelihood.
Several NGOs working in the affected areas have also started mobilizing relief materials, including drinking water, dry rations, and medicines. Officials said coordination with local community groups will help prevent panic and ensure smoother evacuation.
Outlook Ahead
With over three lakh cusecs of water expected to flow from barrages in the next few days, Delhi’s flood risk remains serious. The next 48 hours will be critical as the Yamuna inches towards its danger mark.
Authorities have appealed to the public to remain alert, avoid venturing near the river, and follow official advisories. If the river rises beyond 206 metres, evacuation from low-lying areas may intensify.
For now, Delhi waits anxiously, hoping the Yamuna stabilizes before reaching last year’s alarming levels.