The capital city of Delhi, along with several parts of the country, is witnessing heavy rainfall. Meanwhile, water being released from the Hathnikund Barrage in Haryana is affecting the Yamuna River, surpassing its warning level. The rising water levels in Yamuna continue to escalate, as observed at the Kalindi Kunj Ghat, where locals reported that the water started increasing since Saturday.
The water level of the Yamuna River has reached 205.52 meters at the old railway bridge, exceeding the danger mark of 205.33 meters. The release of water from Hathnikund Barrage remains continuous. As of this morning, at 7:00 am, 272,000 cusecs of water were released, followed by approximately 311,032 cusecs at 8:00 am, and 329,313 cusecs at 9:00 am, set to reach Delhi by tomorrow.
To provide context, on 11th July 2023, 3.6 lakh cusecs of water were released from the Hathnikund Barrage, submerging several areas of Delhi under floodwaters. The ongoing release of millions of cusecs every hour suggests a potential repeat of the 2023 scenario.
In 1978, 7 lakh cusecs were released, raising the Yamuna to 207.49 meters.
2010 saw 744,507 cusecs released, with the river level at 207.11 meters.
In 2013, 806,464 cusecs led the Yamuna to 207.32 meters.
By 2023, 359,760 cusecs increased the level to 208.66 meters.
Officials are closely monitoring the situation, urging all related agencies to take precautionary measures against potential flooding as water levels may increase further. Temporary tents are being set up on the Delhi-Meerut Expressway and in Mayur Vihar for those residing in lower areas near the river.
For reference, Delhi's warning level is 204.5 meters, the danger level is 205.3 meters, and evacuation commences at 206 meters. The old railway bridge is cardinal for monitoring water flow and potential flood hazards. According to a central flood room officer, "The level rises as large volumes are released hourly from Wazirabad and Hathnikund Barrage."
Typically, it takes 48 to 50 hours for water released from the barrages to reach Delhi. Even lesser releases from upstream areas increase water levels, nearing the city's warning mark.
