In Uttar Pradesh's Agra, the water level of the Yamuna River is rapidly rising, casting a flood threat over the iconic Taj Mahal. Continuous heavy rain in Delhi and Haryana has caused water to be released from the Hathinikund Barrage, leaving the Yamuna swelling. This has resulted in the river reaching the walls behind the Taj Mahal, a phenomenon not seen in the past 45 years.
The Yamuna Approaches Danger Levels
The Yamuna's water level is nearing 495.5 feet, close to the flood level of 2023, when waters touched the Taj Mahal's walls. The high flood level here is marked at 508 feet. Predictions suggest further increases are possible. In response to growing threats, the CISF, tasked with Taj Mahal's security, has retreated its camps, and flood-affected areas have been cordoned off.
Source: aajtak
Alert Issued Across Villages
Rising Yamuna waters have incited fear in Agra and its neighboring regions. Authorities have preemptively issued alerts in around 40 villages near Agra. Locals are strictly advised not to approach the Yamuna. The river is breaching fields, and in the religious town of Bateshwar, located 80-85 kilometers away, the ghats are submerged and bathing has been prohibited.
Recalling the Devastating Flood of 1978
Residents reminisce about the disastrous 1978 flood when the Yamuna surged to 508 feet, flooding up to the Taj Mahal's gates. Several temples were submerged at the time. While such an extreme flood has not yet reoccurred, the current situation indicates looming danger. The Archaeological Department reassures that the Taj Mahal faces no imminent threat as it was built on an elevated platform with flood considerations. However, continuous monitoring of the situation persists.
Widespread Panic in the City
The overflowing Yamuna has inundated many city areas in Agra. Waterlogging on Yamuna Kinara Road has disrupted traffic, and several riverbank ghats are completely submerged. Local panic mirrors memories of the catastrophic 1978 flood, as such conditions have resurfaced for the first time since. Cooperation between administration and police teams is key in managing these challenges.
Source: aajtak
Alert in Mathura as Well
Meanwhile, in Mathura district, the Yamuna continues to rise towards danger levels. In this situation, 22 gates of the Gokul Barrage have been opened, with 82,000 cusecs of water continuously being released towards Agra. The prominent Vishram Ghat of Yamuna is entirely submerged under the river's waters. It is believed that after the birth of Lord Krishna, Vasudev Ji took him from this very ghat.
