The Yamuna River has surged past its danger mark, causing floodwaters to invade homes across several parts of Delhi, particularly the Trans-Yamuna area. Early Tuesday morning, the river’s water level was recorded at 205.81 meters at the Old Yamuna Bridge, surpassing the official danger threshold of 205.33 meters, and is projected to rise further to 206.41 meters by evening. This unprecedented rise is due to heavy overnight rainfall compounded by large releases of water from upstream barrages, including Hathnikund, Wazirabad, and Okhla, which have collectively increased the river’s flow significantly.

Low-lying neighborhoods such as Yamuna Bazaar, Mayur Vihar, and adjacent colonies have experienced severe flooding. Residents woke to submerged streets and water seeping into their homes, forcing many to move belongings to upper floors or evacuate to relief camps established on higher ground. The river breached its banks in several areas, turning residential lanes into temporary waterways. Local authorities have urged inhabitants living on the floodplains to evacuate promptly to ensure their safety, with public announcements being made via boats and on loudspeakers.

The government has taken multiple steps to manage the crisis, including closing traffic on vulnerable links like the Old Railway Bridge and Loha Pul to prevent accidents. Schools and offices in affected areas have seen closures as precautionary measures. Additionally, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority is coordinating rapid response teams to patrol flood-prone zones and assist residents. Flight operations near Delhi have also been disrupted due to waterlogged roads and poor visibility resulting from continuous rains.

This flood situation has revived memories of the severe floods in July 2023, when over 25,000 people were evacuated due to the Yamuna breaching historic high levels. Experts emphasize that such flooding is partly due to the rivers natural response to monsoon rains combined with upstream water releases, but they also underscore the importance of urban flood preparedness and better drainage systems to mitigate damage. Residents are advised to remain cautious, stay updated through official channels, and prioritize safety during this ongoing monsoon event. In summary, Delhi is currently grappling with escalating floodwaters as the Yamuna River crosses danger levels, leading to inundation of homes, disruptions in daily life, and increased efforts by authorities to control the impact and ensure residents well-being.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from NDTV.