Delhi on High Alert as Hathni Kund Barrage Releases Over 3 Lakh Cusecs of Water

New Delhi: Delhi is once again on flood alert after the Central Flood Control Room (Irrigation & Flood Control Department, Government of NCT of Delhi) issued its second warning of the season. The advisory comes following the release of an enormous 3,29,313 cusecs of water from Hathni Kund barrage at 9:00 am on Monday—far exceeding the safe threshold of 3 lakh cusecs.

According to official benchmarks, the warning level at the Delhi Old Railway Bridge (ORB) is 204.50 metres, while the danger level stands at 205.33 metres. In July 2023, the Yamuna had swelled to a record 208.66 metres, causing severe inundation across several parts of the capital.

Officials now fear that water levels may cross the danger mark and could even surpass 206.50 metres, as per an advisory expected soon from the Central Water Commission (CWC).

Strict Vigil and Evacuation Plans

Sector officers across Delhi have been instructed to maintain a round-the-clock vigil in vulnerable areas. People living along the Yamuna embankments are being warned and shifted to safer zones as a precautionary step.

Police and Irrigation Department staff have also been deployed for continuous patrolling of embankments and flood-prone stretches. Additional attention is being paid to pumps, regulators, and low-lying colonies that are usually the first to bear the brunt of flooding.

“The situation is being closely monitored. All teams are on high alert to prevent loss of life and property,” the official warning signed by Executive Engineer Shiv Kumar, Incharge, Central Flood Control Room , stated.

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Government on Alert

The warning has been forwarded to the Lieutenant Governor’s office as well as the Chief Minister’s office, ensuring top-level coordination in flood preparedness.

Precautions for Residents in Flood-Prone Areas

• Residents have been urged to stay away from riverbanks.
• People in low-lying areas should remain ready for possible evacuation notices.
• Traffic and movement around Yamuna bridges and adjoining roads could be temporarily affected.

With heavy water inflows from Hathni Kund and a rising Yamuna, authorities have urged residents to remain cautious.

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