- The Yamuna River in Delhi is at its highest level ever, creating anxiety and necessitating emergency measures.
- Heavy rainfall in northwest India, particularly the Yamuna basin states, and enhanced water flow from the upstream Hathnikund Barrage in Haryana are both contributing to the record-breaking water levels.
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Water Levels Unprecedented and Emergency Response
- The Yamuna River in Delhi is currently flowing at its greatest level ever recorded.
- To address the situation, the Delhi Chief Minister has written to the Union Home Minister asking regulated water supply from the Hathnikund Barrage.
- Due to high rainfall in northwest India, the barrage’s water release, which is generally approximately 352 cusecs during non-monsoon months, hit a peak of 3.59 lakh cusecs.
The Importance of Water Discharge
- Impact of Upstream Water Release: The release of water upstream from the Hathnikund Barrage determines the water level in Delhi’s Yamuna River.
- Water Flow Regulation: The barrage serves as a regulator and can only limit the amount of water released downstream and into canals.
- Concerns about floods: Failure to discharge water from upstream can result in higher flooding in places upstream, especially Haryana.
Water Accumulation’s Potential Consequences
- Increased Flooding: Failure to regulate the Yamuna River’s water levels might result in severe flooding in Delhi and the neighbouring areas.
- Damage to Infrastructure: High water levels endanger infrastructure such as roads, buildings, and public utilities.
- Residents’ Displacement: Excessive floods can compel people to flee their homes, resulting in displacement and associated humanitarian issues.
Taking Care of the Emergency
- Controlled Water Release: The Hathnikund Barrage’s controlled water release can help to reduce flooding hazards.
- Coordination and collaboration: Cooperation between Delhi and Haryana officials, as well as with central government agencies, is critical to efficiently managing the issue.
- Monitoring and Emergency Response: During this emergency circumstance, continuous monitoring of water levels, timely communication, and readiness to manage any evacuation or relief activities are critical.
@the end
The record quantities of water in Delhi’s Yamuna River necessitate prompt attention and concerted action to prevent further harm and protect affected residents.
Source: https://m.economictimes.com/news/india/delhi-flood-situation-worsens-water-level-in-yamuna-surges-to-record-208-48-metres/articleshow/101714801.cms