Delhi: Yamuna nears danger-mark, flood alert issued, government starts preparations
A flood alert was issued for low-lying areas along the banks of the Yamuna in Delhi today, as the river neared its danger mark. As per latest reports, the Yamuna is flowing at 205.33m, and is expected to cross the danger mark soon. Meanwhile, the Delhi government has swung into action and started shifting people from such vulnerable areas. Here are more details.
At 8 am today, the river was at 204.56m. However, the water is expected to rise to 207m later in the day, as Haryana's Hathni Kund barrage released a record 8.28 lakh cusecs of water at 6 pm yesterday. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said that Yamuna's danger mark at 207.32m is likely to be breached, following the release of water from Haryana.
Haryana releases 8.28 lakh cusec of water, Delhi CM @ArvindKejriwal advises people living in Yamuna Flood Plains to evacuate shift to tents or relatives' residences. Assures situation is under control.
— AAP (@AamAadmiParty) August 19, 2019
Delhi govt is on alert mode, in tandem with central govt. #DelhiFlood pic.twitter.com/plfDuzhnw6
Kejriwal also held an emergency meeting at 1 pm today to assess the situation, and preparations for the imminent flood. Thus far, the government has set up 2,120 temporary shelters with facilities of food, water, portable toilets, etc., for evacuees. According to official estimates, over 23,800 people will have to be moved out from low-lying regions that are likely to be flooded.
Civil Defence Officer Lalit Goyal told ANI, "We have deployed forces. Our department is ready for rescue operations. We got to know that water has been released from Hathni Kund barrage. We will ensure that people shift to safer places." Additionally, traffic movement on the Loha Pul or Old Iron Bridge was also halted in the evening, the Traffic Police reported.
