The Yamuna River's water level in Delhi has risen above the danger mark, prompting evacuations and raising concerns about potential flooding in low-lying areas. As of Wednesday, September 3, 2025, the river's level has surpassed the danger mark of 205.33 meters, reaching 207 meters at the Old Railway Bridge (ORB) at 1 p.m. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have implemented measures to ensure public safety.
The rising water level is primarily attributed to continuous heavy rainfall in Delhi over the past few days and the large volumes of water being released from the Hathnikund and Wazirabad barrages. At 8 a.m. today, the river received a discharge of 1.62 lakh cusecs from the Hathnikund Barrage and 1.38 lakh cusecs from the Wazirabad Barrage. The Central Flood Control Room anticipates a further increase in the water level based on current forecasts.
In response to the escalating situation, authorities have evacuated over 7,500 people from vulnerable areas across five districts: East, North, Southeast, Northeast, and Central. Evacuees are being accommodated in relief camps set up at 25 locations, including tents and schools. The Old Loha Bridge has been closed to traffic as a precautionary measure. Public movement has also been restricted.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has assured citizens that the situation is under control. She stated that all necessary arrangements have been made for the evacuated residents and that additional measures will be implemented if needed. Accommodation facilities have been arranged, and the water flow remains within the Yamuna plains. The Chief Minister has also communicated with leaders of neighboring states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, and Haryana, offering assistance and cooperation to address the crisis collectively.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast a "generally cloudy sky with moderate rain" for Delhi today, with thunderstorms expected tomorrow. Similar conditions are expected to persist in the coming days. Residents in areas like Yamuna Bazar and Civil Lines have already begun moving to safer locations as water levels rise, with shopkeepers in Monastery Market taking precautions to protect their goods.
The Central Water Commission has warned that the water level could potentially cross 207 meters, a level that has been breached only four times in the past 63 years. Authorities are urging residents in low-lying areas to remain vigilant and cooperate with evacuation efforts. Civil defense, police, and flood control teams are stationed along the riverbanks to assist with evacuations and monitor the situation.