Jobaaj Stories
New Delhi, July 12: The Yamuna River in Delhi has reached a historic water level of 207.55 meters, surpassing the previous record set 45 years ago. Experts attribute the situation to factors such as encroachment of floodplains, extreme rainfall in a short duration, and the accumulation of silt, which has elevated the riverbed. The rising water has resulted in the inundation of areas near the floodplains, prompting the evacuation of thousands of people to safer locations. In response to the grave situation, the Delhi Police have imposed prohibitory measures in flood-prone areas, restricting public movement and assembly.
Experts have identified various factors contributing to the record water level. The Central Water Commission (CWC) noted that the reduced time for water released from the Hathnikund Barrage to reach Delhi may be due to encroachment and siltation, as the river's cross-section has become constricted. Additionally, intense rainfall in a short duration is considered a primary reason for the Yamuna's surge. The encroachment of floodplains and the accumulation of silt in the riverbed are believed to have exacerbated the situation.
The Delhi Irrigation and Flood Control Department explained that continuous rainfall in the upper catchment areas and saturated soil from heavy precipitation in Delhi and nearby regions have contributed to the sharp rise in water levels. To address the crisis, people living in low-lying areas have been relocated to higher altitudes. The department has deployed boats for evacuation and rescue operations, and NGOs are providing relief to the affected individuals.
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has urged the central government to intervene and prevent a further rise in Yamuna's water levels, highlighting the upcoming G-20 Summit to be hosted by Delhi. The Delhi Transport Corporation headquarters area near ITO has been waterlogged, and floodwaters have risen to over four feet in some areas of northeast Delhi.
With heavy rainfall predicted in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh over the next two days, concerns remain about a further increase in river water levels. The Yamuna River system's catchment covers multiple states, and low-lying areas near the river in Delhi, inhabited by approximately 41,000 people, are considered flood-prone. Despite the land belonging to various authorities, encroachments on the river floodplain have occurred over the years.
(This news piece is in consideration with The Print)
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