The Yamuna River in Delhi is approaching dangerous levels, prompting the Delhi government to issue a flood alert. This situation arises after Haryana released a significant amount of water from the Hathnikund Barrage, following heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas.

Rising Water Levels and Flood Alert The water level in the Yamuna River has been steadily increasing, reaching 205.25 meters, nearing the danger mark of 205.33 meters. The warning level of 204.5 meters has already been breached. The Central Water Commission (CWC) is closely monitoring the river's level at the Old Railway Bridge, a key observation point. Authorities expect the water level to continue rising and potentially cross the danger mark. An advisory has been issued by the Delhi government, cautioning that the river may cross the 206-meter danger level by August 19.

Haryana's Water Release The primary reason for the rising water level in the Yamuna is the substantial release of water from the Hathnikund Barrage in Haryana. For the first time this monsoon season, all 18 gates of the Hathnikund barrage were opened, discharging 1,78,896 cusecs of water downstream. This action was necessitated by heavy rainfall in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, which caused a surge in the river's water level. It generally takes about 48 hours for the water released from the barrage to reach Delhi.

Precautionary Measures and Evacuation Plans

In light of the rising water levels, the Delhi government and related agencies are taking precautionary measures. An alert has been issued to all concerned agencies to prepare for a potential flood-like situation. Evacuation plans for low-lying areas are also being put in place. The Flood and Irrigation Department has stated that evacuations from low-lying areas will commence once the water level reaches 206 meters. Announcements are being made in vulnerable neighborhoods, advising residents to move to safer locations. Civic agencies, the Delhi Jal Board, and the Irrigation and Flood Control Department have been directed to take necessary precautions.

Expert Opinions and Historical Context Bhim Singh Rawat, associate coordinator at the South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People (SANDRP), noted that consistent discharges from the Hathnikund Barrage, ranging between 40,000 to 60,000 cusecs, are reflected in the rising water level. He added that at this rate, the water is expected to cross the danger level.

In 2023, the Yamuna River swelled to 208.66 meters on July 11, following a record discharge of 359,760 cusecs from Hathnikund. In contrast, the peak level last year was 204.38 meters on September 26, which remained below the warning level.

Weather Forecast

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an 'orange' alert for Delhi, forecasting more showers, thunderstorms, and lightning. The heavy downpour has already caused waterlogging in several parts of the city, disrupting traffic and causing inconvenience to commuters. The weather office has also sounded alerts for neighboring states.