In a positive development, a senior official from the Central Water Commission (CWC) announced on Thursday that the water level of the Yamuna river in Delhi has stabilized and is anticipated to begin receding tonight. According to the CWC flood-monitoring portal, the water level at the Old Railway Bridge remained steady at 208.62 meters until 4 pm, assuaging concerns of further rise.
Director Sharad Chandra from the Central Water Commission assured that the water level has reached a stable point and is projected to decrease to 208.45 meters by 3 am on Friday. The flow rate at the Hathnikund barrage in Haryana has also reduced to 80,000 cusecs as of 4 pm, indicating a positive trend in the river's water flow, according to media reports.
The recent surge in the Yamuna river's water level has led to extensive flooding in various areas, adversely impacting public and private infrastructure, as well as road and rail traffic, resulting in significant hardships for the local residents. In response, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal appealed to the central government for intervention, while Section 144 of the CrPC was imposed by the city police in flood-prone regions to prevent unlawful gatherings and ensure public safety.
Taking precautionary measures, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority has directed the closure of all non-essential government offices, schools, and colleges until Sunday. Private establishments across the city have been advised to adopt a work-from-home policy during this period.
Delhi's vulnerability to flooding stems from the absence of dams on the Yamuna river, leading to unutilized monsoon rain flow, thereby causing seasonal floods. Notably, the river's water level rose rapidly over the past four days, surpassing the danger mark and necessitating the relocation of people from flood-prone areas.
While Delhi awaits relief from the receding water level, it is important to note historical flood trends, which indicate major flood occurrences in the past, particularly in 1924, 1977, 1978, 1988, 1995, 1998, 2010, and 2013. Research also suggests a rising trend of floods in September and a decreasing trend in July, highlighting the need for vigilance during the monsoon season.
Although the situation in Delhi shows signs of improvement, the India Meteorological Department has issued warnings of heavy rainfall in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh in the coming days
