Yamuna River Crosses Warning Level in Delhi, Flood Alert Issued
The water level of the Yamuna river in Delhi has crossed the official warning mark of 204.50 metres, reaching 204.88 metres. The rise is attributed to large volumes of water being released from the Hathnikund barrage in Haryana following heavy rains. Authorities have issued an alert to all concerned agencies, asking them to take precautionary measures for a potential flood-like situation in low-lying areas near the riverbanks. The danger mark for the river in the national capital is 205.3 metres.
Unpacked:
The Yamuna has crossed the danger mark in Delhi 25 times over the last 33 years. The most severe floods occurred in 1978 (peak level 207.49 m) and 1988 (206.92 m), with the 1978 flood being the worst since records began, causing extensive damage to property and agriculture.
Low-lying areas such as Yamuna Bazar, Usmanpur, Wazirabad, Kalindi Kunj, Okhla, and near landmarks like the Red Fort are most at risk. Flooding can submerge residential neighborhoods, disrupt traffic, damage property and crops, and sometimes force thousands into relief camps.
Authorities issue alerts, evacuate residents from low-lying areas, set up relief camps, and monitor embankments for breaches. Agencies prepare emergency services and coordinate with neighboring states to manage water releases from upstream barrages like Hathnikund.
Historically, Delhi developed along the Yamuna’s floodplains, but urban expansion and construction on these plains have reduced natural drainage and flood absorption. Silted river channels, unplanned construction, and weakened embankments have increased flood risk in recent decades.