The Yamuna river in Delhi breached the ‘danger level’ of 205.33 metres on Monday afternoon, prompting authorities to issue warnings in residential areas close to the floodplains and start preparations for the temporary relocation of the affected residents.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, accompanied by Water Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh, visited areas near the Yamuna floodplains in central Delhi during the day.
She assured residents that the departments concerned are constantly monitoring the flow and level of the river. Ms. Gupta said that the Central Water Commission (CWC) had issued an advisory about the water level possibly rising to 206 metres.
As per protocol, the Delhi government will initiate the evacuation of nearly 12,500 people living in low-lying areas in six of the city’s 11 districts as soon as the river breaches the 206-metre mark.
No flood-like situation will arise in the city this year, assured the CM, adding that 14 boats have been deployed at key locations for relief and rescue operations. She added that in the event of inundation, only the floodplains will be affected. “Residents of these areas have already been alerted by the administration and necessary arrangements have been made to shift them to safer places,” said Ms. Gupta.
