The water level of the Yamuna River in Delhi relentlessly rises, appearing uncontrollable. Late on Wednesday, conditions worsened as a wall of the Nigambodh Ghat complex collapsed. As floodwaters rushed into the historic site, it had to be completely closed. Nigambodh Ghat, Delhi's oldest and busiest cremation ground, now grapples with the flood's onslaught.
Earlier in the day, inundation halted cremation processes at the ghat. With the wall's collapse, the situation turned dire. Authorities stated that water had already filled the ghat, necessitating its closure for safety reasons.
Meanwhile, the Yamuna's fury also impacts routes leading to the Delhi Secretariat, with one path closed due to perilously high water levels. The traffic police issued an alert warning of severe congestion around the Outer Ring Road and nearby areas.
Flood-like conditions in Delhi echo those of 2023 when Yamuna reached 208.66 meters, displacing thousands. Currently, the water level exceeds 207 meters, prompting intensified relief efforts.
Authorities have set up 38 relief camps in flood-affected zones while thousands have been relocated to safety. The closure of Nigambodh Ghat increases pressure on the capital's cremation facilities. The government and disaster management department closely monitor the situation, with officials cautioning that further water level rises could worsen the crisis.
Yamuna's Water Level Records
2023 – 208.66 meters
1978 – 207.49 meters
2025 – 207.33 meters (6 PM)
2013 – 207.32 meters
Delhi Police Issues Traffic Alert
Delhi Police released a traffic alert indicating disrupted routes from Majnu Ka Tila to Salimgarh Bypass on Outer Ring Road. Numerous diversions are in place. The Delhi Traffic Police urges commuters to follow directions and consider alternate routes.
Rain Intensifies the Crisis
According to the Central Water Commission, heavy rainfall in upstream states over the past 24 hours accelerated Yamuna's flow. The Meteorological Department issued an orange alert for continued rainfall in the next two days. Water has entered relief camps in the Yamuna Bazaar area, and those initially evacuated from flood-affected areas are now being shifted again. The administration has commenced evacuating the area.
Plans Underway to Shift Residents
The Delhi government announced plans to relocate residents from areas along Yamuna's banks. The flood control room operates around the clock, providing a 24-hour helpline.
Amid flood conditions, Delhi's PWD Minister Parvesh Verma visited the ITO barrage on Wednesday. Speaking to the media, he assured that 2023-level conditions will not recur. Despite repeated evacuation notices, people dwelling on the Yamuna belt often refuse to leave. Efforts are underway to rescue these residents and shelter them in camps set up in schools.
