Yamuna breaches hazard stage; Delhi govt. begins making ready for evacuation of residents

The Yamuna river in Delhi breached the ‘hazard stage’ of 205.33 metres on Monday afternoon, prompting authorities to concern warnings in residential areas near the floodplains and begin preparations for the momentary relocation of the affected residents.

Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, accompanied by Water Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh, visited areas close to the Yamuna floodplains in central Delhi through the day.

She assured residents that the departments involved are continually monitoring the circulation and stage of the river. Ms. Gupta stated that the Central Water Commission (CWC) had issued an advisory in regards to the water stage presumably rising to 206 metres.

As per protocol, the Delhi authorities will provoke the evacuation of almost 12,500 folks dwelling in low-lying areas in six of town’s 11 districts as quickly because the river breaches the 206-metre mark.

No flood-like scenario will come up within the metropolis this yr, assured the CM, including that 14 boats have been deployed at key places for reduction and rescue operations. She added that within the occasion of inundation, solely the floodplains shall be affected. “Residents of those areas have already been alerted by the administration and vital preparations have been made to shift them to safer locations,” stated Ms. Gupta.

According to official information, the extent on the Old Railway Bridge in Delhi, which serves as a key statement level to trace the river’s circulation, was 205.73 metres at 10 p.m. on Monday. It is more likely to rise to 205.77 metres by 8 p.m. on Tuesday and stay above the ‘hazard stage’ for the following few days. The water stage in Delhi rises as a result of launch of extra water from Haryana’s Hathnikund barrage after heavy rains within the higher Yamuna area.

Record floods in 2023

During monsoons, the Yamuna often breaches the ‘hazard stage’ within the metropolis. However, most residents and providers stay unaffected. But in July 2023, when town skilled its worst floods and the river stage hit a report excessive of 208.66 metres, the federal government relocated over 25,000 folks, with many areas and arterial roads being submerged by floodwaters.

Better ready: Gupta

The CM stated that the river is flowing easily, marking a big enchancment from earlier years when obstructions triggered flooding within the metropolis.

“In the earlier years, the desilting of drains and upkeep of barrages weren’t finished correctly. The ITO barrage gates had been blocked and jammed. But this time, after six months of steady work, all of the gates are absolutely open and the desilting of drains has been accomplished,” she stated.

Ms. Gupta added {that a} flood management room has been arrange on the workplace of the District Magistrate (East). “It is now functioning as a central coordination hub for your entire metropolis, with representatives from all civic companies stationed 24×7,” she added.

The Haryana authorities controls the ITO barrage. The 2023 floods had sparked a disagreement between Delhi, which was then ruled by the Aam Aadmi Party, and the BJP-ruled Haryana.