The water level of the Yamuna in the national capital began to recede on Monday morning, and Delhi Minister Gopal Rai reassured the public that there is “nothing to worry about.” According to the Central Water Commission (CWC), the Yamuna’s water level was recorded at 206.47 meters at 12 noon, which is over a meter above the danger mark of 205.33 meters.
Gopal Rai inspected the relief camps in the Shahdara district near the Old Yamuna Bridge and advised the residents to remain in the tents until the water level subsides. He stated that ample arrangements, including food and toilets, have been made by the government for those affected by the floods.
The minister also mentioned that if the water flow from the Hathnikund barrage remains controlled, the water level in the Yamuna will decrease rapidly in Delhi. He attributed the floods in Delhi to the diversion of water flow from Hathnikund towards the city.
Expressing gratitude, Rai acknowledged the support provided by several NGOs in supplying rations to those affected by the floods. He later tweeted about his visit to assess the situation and distribute relief materials to the needy in Shahdara district.
Since July 13, the water level at the Old Yamuna Bridge has been hovering around the danger mark, reaching an all-time high of 208.66 meters. Heavy rains upstream of Delhi are likely to impact the rehabilitation of affected families in low-lying areas, potentially extending their stay in relief camps.
The floods have caused significant devastation, with more than 27,000 people evacuated from their homes. The losses incurred in terms of property, businesses, and earnings have reached significant amounts.
Experts attribute the unprecedented flooding in Delhi to factors such as encroachment on the river floodplain, intense rainfall within a short period, and silt accumulation that has raised the riverbed.
