Yamuna River Crosses Danger Level Again, Delhi on High Alert as Thousands Shifted to Safer Places

National News: The Yamuna River has crossed the 207-metre mark, reviving memories of past floods. Similar levels were seen in 2023, 2013, 2010, and even as far back as 1978. Today, water has risen above 208 metres. The Central Water Commission has issued a forecast that the river will cross 207.40 metres again by Wednesday evening. With water already far above the danger mark of 205.33 metres, officials have declared an emergency situation in the national capital.

 Warning Issued for Delhi

Authorities have raised alarms across Delhi as the Yamuna keeps swelling. The official warning level is 204.5 metres, but the water now flows well above that. Roads have been blocked, and the Old Railway Bridge has been shut down completely. Traffic diversions have caused chaos across the city. The government has ordered evacuations from low-lying areas to avoid further tragedies. Families are being moved to shelters on an urgent basis.

Weather Adds to Worries

The Indian Meteorological Department has predicted more rainfall across Delhi and the National Capital Region. Forecasts suggest light to moderate rain with thunderstorms, lightning, and winds blowing at 30 to 40 km per hour. Rainfall has already made the ground unstable, increasing fears of waterlogging and flooding. Parts of Haryana and Punjab are also expected to witness similar conditions. This worsening weather could increase pressure on the already rising Yamuna.

Evacuation in Full Swing

Residents of low-lying areas have been evacuated to relief camps. Areas around Yamuna, including Madanpur Khadar, were the worst hit. Families rushed out with only a few belongings as floodwaters entered their homes. Authorities managed to save many lives, but people were forced to leave behind household items, livestock, and crops. With shelters overcrowded, more space is being arranged urgently. The administration says relief work will continue until water levels recede.

People Struggle Without Basics

Displaced families say they are facing extreme hardships. With homes under water, people are living under temporary tents and old plastic sheets. Residents complained of having no toilets and no access to clean drinking water. Women are suffering the most due to a lack of facilities. Families also say there is no food, no utensils, and many are surviving only on biscuits and buns. Cooking facilities are missing, and aid is arriving too slowly.

Daily Life in Disruption

The flood-like situation has completely disturbed normal life in Delhi. Roads remain blocked, transport is interrupted, and businesses near the river are shut. Schools in some affected areas have been closed. Residents say they fear diseases spreading due to stagnant water. Shopkeepers and small traders are reporting huge losses. Farmers close to the Yamuna say their standing crops have been washed away, adding to financial misery. The disaster has hit all sections of society.

Urgent Relief Measures Needed

Relief operations are underway, but people say help is not reaching fast enough. NGOs and local volunteers have stepped in to distribute food packets and water. The Delhi government has promised more shelters and medical care. However, challenges remain due to continuous rainfall and high water levels. The central government has also assured support. Experts say better river management and long-term planning are needed to stop this cycle of disaster every few years.