Is Delhi Prepared for Flooding After Water Release from Hathni Kund in Haryana?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Flood alert issued due to water release from Hathni Kund barrage.
- Water levels monitored closely to ensure public safety.
- Authorities taking precautionary measures in vulnerable areas.
- Apex Committee established for coordinated response.
- Continuous patrolling initiated by police and flood control staff.
New Delhi, Sep 1 (NationPress) The Central Flood Control Room of the Delhi government issued a flood alert on Monday following the release of 3.29 lakh cusecs of water from the Hathni Kund barrage in Haryana at approximately 9 A.M., as confirmed by an official.
The official noted that water discharged from upstream barrages usually arrives in Delhi within 48 to 50 hours, but the situation is under close observation. All relevant agencies have been instructed to implement precautionary measures to mitigate any potential flood risks.
The flood warning, issued by Executive Engineer Shiv Kumar, who oversees the control room, indicated that the water level at the Old Railway Bridge could surpass the danger threshold, likely exceeding 206.50 metres. As such, all Sector Officers are urged to maintain heightened vigilance in their areas and to take necessary actions at vulnerable locations, advising residents living near river embankments to evacuate to safer zones.
The warning emphasized that the police and staff from the Irrigation and Flood Control Department would conduct continuous patrols along the right and left marginal embankments, monitoring vulnerable points and managing regulators/pumps as needed.
The alert also provided key benchmarks for the Old Railway Bridge: Warning Level at 204.50 metres, Danger Level at 205.33 metres, and the Highest Flood Level recorded on July 13, 2023, at 208.66 metres.
An Apex Committee has been formed under the leadership of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta to oversee and coordinate flood control strategies in the National Capital Territory of Delhi.
A Central Flood Control Room has also been established to support the Apex Committee, operating continuously at L.M. Bund, Shastri Nagar, until October 15 or until the monsoon season concludes.
Previously, CM Gupta inspected various flood-prone areas along the Yamuna, including Asita Ghat, Yamuna Chhath Ghat, Regulator No. 12, the East Delhi DM office, and the Central Flood Control Room.
Accompanied by Cabinet Minister Parvesh Verma and senior officials, she affirmed that a comprehensive flood preparedness plan is now active.
The Chief Minister reassured the residents of Delhi, stating, “The government is committed to supporting you at every step.”