Due to increasing rains and the release of water from Haryana’s Hathnikund barrage, New Delhi is currently experiencing flood-like conditions. Water treatment facilities have been shut down, and there may now be a problem with the water supply because the water level in the Yamuna has increased above the danger level.
New Delhi flood-like conditions in the nation’s capital
New Delhi: On Thursday, July 13, 2023, a vehicle travelled across a flooded road close to the Red Fort as the overflowing Yamuna river flooded low-lying regions. The raging Yamuna in New Delhi grew to an incredible 208.48 meters on Thursday morning, flooding neighbouring streets, public and private infrastructure, and putting a tremendous amount of hardship on those who live near the river.
Introduction:
New Delhi is currently facing a severe flood-like situation caused by the overflowing Yamuna river. The water levels have risen significantly, resulting in flooding of low-lying areas and causing immense hardship for the affected residents. This article delves into the details of the situation, its causes, and the efforts being made to address the issue.
Unprecedented Rise in Yamuna’s Water Level:
Over the past three days, New Delhi has witnessed an unprecedented rise in the water level of the Yamuna river. From 203.14 metres on Sunday to 205.4 metres on Monday, the water level rose above the danger level of 205.33 metres. On Thursday morning, it surged to 208.48 meters, prompting the Central Water Commission to declare the situation as “extreme.”
Efforts to Address the Flood Situation:
New Delhi Lt. Governor VK Saxena has called a meeting of the New Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) to review the flooding situation in the city. Additionally, New Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has urged Union Home Minister Amit Shah to release water from the Hathnikund barrage in Haryana in a controlled manner to prevent further flooding in the capital. The closure of water treatment facilities in Wazirabad, Chandrwal, and Okhla due to the rising Yamuna levels could also affect water availability in certain areas.
Causes of the Flood-Like Condition:
The flood-like condition in New Delhi can be attributed to two primary causes. Firstly, there has been an increase in rainfall in the national capital and its surroundings. In addition, the flow of water through Haryana’s Hathnikund barrage has also contributed to the rising water levels. Recent heavy rains have resulted in the barrage discharging water at a rate higher than the average, exacerbating the situation.
Impact on Water Treatment Facilities:
The rising Yamuna levels have forced the closure of water treatment facilities in Wazirabad, Chandrwal, and Okhla. This closure may have an adverse effect on the availability of water in some areas, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the residents.
Affected Locations:
The floodwaters have affected several low-lying areas along the Yamuna river. The ring road was inundated on Wednesday afternoon, and by Wednesday night, locations such as Majnu ka Tila, Wazirabad, the Boat Club, Monastery Market, Neeli Chhatri Temple, Yamuna Bazar, and Neem Karoli gaushala were all submerged. If the water level continues to rise, areas like Mayur Vihar, Laxmi Nagar, Sarai Kale Khan, Badarpur, Jamia Nagar, and Shaheen Bagh may also experience flooding.
Conclusion:
The unprecedented rise in the water level of the Yamuna river has caused severe flooding in various parts of New Delhi, resulting in significant hardships for the affected residents. The situation demands immediate attention and concerted efforts from authorities to manage the flood situation, mitigate further damage, and provide relief to those affected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1. What is causing the flood-like condition in New Delhi?
Q2. How has the Yamuna’s water level risen so rapidly?
Q3. What measures are being taken to address the flood situation?
Q4. Which areas in New Delhi have been affected by the flooding?
Q5. How are the closure of water treatment facilities impacting water availability?
Note: The information provided in this article is based on the events and circumstances as of July 13, 2023, and is subject to change as the situation evolves.
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