Delhi faces severe flooding as Yamuna swells, several schools shut, cars submerged

New Delhi: In the wake of rising water levels in the Yamuna River, Delhi is grappling with severe flooding that has led to the closure of schools and the submergence of cars. Emergency measures are being implemented to address the situation.

As of 7 a.m. today, the water level in the Yamuna River had reached 208.46 metres, exceeding the danger mark by three metres. The Hathnikund barrage in Haryana has been releasing water into the river, contributing to the escalating water levels.

The Delhi government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, had appealed to the central government to intervene and halt the water discharge from the barrage. However, the central government responded that releasing the excess water from the barrage was necessary.

The barrage has filled up due to very heavy rain further north, in Himachal Pradesh, where the monsoon has brought large-scale destruction.

The flooding has resulted in the closure of the Ring Road in the Civil Lines area, as well as the section connecting Majnu ka Tila with Kashmiri Gate ISBT. Notably, this affected area is located a mere 500 metres from Chief Minister Kejriwal’s residence and the Delhi Assembly.

Due to the rising water levels, three water treatment plants have been shut down, potentially impacting the capital’s drinking water supply. Chief Minister Kejriwal announced the closure of all schools, both government-run and private, in response to the waterlogging situation.

Chief Minister Kejriwal took to Twitter this morning, urging people to stay away from flooded areas. He reassured the public that the administration is actively evacuating waterlogged regions and requested the citizens’ cooperation during the evacuation efforts. “Saving lives is of utmost importance. I appeal to all Delhiites to assist each other in this emergency,” he tweeted.

The Central Water Commission has predicted a decline in water flow from the Haryana barrage starting from 2 p.m. onward.

Furthermore, People have also been advised not to use the Nigambodh Ghat cremation ground, as Old Delhi remains among the areas worst-hit by the flood situation.

To aid in rescue operations, a total of 12 teams from the National Disaster Response Force have been deployed on the ground.