Yamuna rises above danger mark in Delhi, some areas being evacuated

The Yamuna rose above the danger mark in Delhi on Tuesday, forcing the evacuation of people living in low-lying areas of the national capital.

Due to heavy rains in the catchment area of the river, the water level in the Yamuna touched 206.16 metres in the morning, which is well above the danger mark of 205.33 metres.

“People living in low-lying areas near the riverbanks are being evacuated and shifted to higher grounds. Arrangements have been made for their stay at government schools and night shelters in nearby areas,” East Delhi district magistrate Anil Banka told journalists.

He also warned of a further increase in the water level during the day. There are over 37,000 people living in the flood-prone areas close to the river.

According to the Delhi flood control department, the water level at the Old Delhi Railway Bridge crossed the evacuation level of 206 metres at 5.45 am on Tuesday and the river swelled to 206.16 metres by 8 am. It predicted that the water level may increase to 206.5 metres between 3 pm and 5 pm in the evening.