Yamuna Swells to 207.48 Metres, Flood Situation Worsens in Delhi-NCR

Delhi: Delhi and adjoining NCR regions continued to battle worsening flood conditions on Thursday as the Yamuna river surged to 207.48 metres at the Old Railway Bridge by 7 am. The rise followed heavy water release from Haryana’s Hathnikund barrage, pushing low-lying areas of the capital further underwater and disrupting normal life, traffic, and essential services.

According to the Central Water Commission, the river level remained steady between 6 am and 7 am at 207.48 metres, having risen slightly from 207.47 metres recorded at 5 am. Officials confirmed that water levels stayed static through the early hours of the morning, heightening fears that any further rise could breach more embankments.

One of the worst-hit spots is the Delhi Secretariat, where floodwaters have seeped past a weakened outer wall. Half of the structure has already collapsed, and authorities worry that if the remaining portion gives way, water could enter the government complex housing the Chief Minister’s office and top officials. Pumps and sandbags have been deployed, but the relentless backflow from Hathi Ghat has rendered much of the drainage effort ineffective.

The rising Yamuna has also inundated Vasudev Ghat and reached the revered Shri Marghat Wale Hanuman Baba Mandir near Kashmere Gate. Several homes and shops in nearby colonies have gone under water, causing huge losses to residents and traders. Streets in north and central Delhi remained submerged, leading to traffic chaos and leaving thousands stranded.

Relief efforts are underway. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Delhi Police, and fire brigade teams are carrying out round-the-clock evacuations. Official figures show that over 8,000 people have been shifted to tents, while another 2,000 have been moved to permanent shelters. People in the worst-hit areas could be seen carrying belongings on their heads, wading through chest-deep water to reach safer zones.

The Yamuna has a history of dangerous floods in Delhi. In 2023, the river swelled to a record 208.66 metres, while the infamous flood of 1978 peaked at 207.49 metres. Other high-water years include 2010 and 2013, with levels touching 207.11 metres and 207.32 metres respectively. This year’s level is already alarmingly close to those historic marks.