Delhi: Yamuna River over danger level

New Delhi is on high alert after the Yamuna River surged past the danger mark following relentless monsoon rainfall. Water levels crossed 205.33 metres and at some points touched 207 metres, a rare occurrence seen only four times in the last six decades. Authorities have evacuated nearly 10,000 residents from low-lying riverbank areas.

The Old Iron Bridge (Loha Pul) has been closed to prevent accidents, while civic bodies have deployed high-capacity pumps to clear inundated areas. Delhi’s municipal authorities have also activated a 24×7 flood control room and are working on de-siltation of stormwater drains to prevent further waterlogging.

Regional impact and casualties

The heavy downpour has triggered flash floods and landslides in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and Punjab. At least five people were reported dead in the latest incidents, including three in Himachal’s Mandi district due to landslides and two in Jammu & Kashmir after a wall collapse.

Punjab has been the worst hit this season, with over 30 deaths, more than 1,400 villages affected, and 3 lakh acres of farmland inundated. Farmers have reported widespread crop losses, compounding the agrarian distress.

Government response and preparedness

State administrations across northern India have set up emergency camps and deployed disaster response teams. Relief operations are underway, with stranded families being relocated to safer areas. In Delhi, emergency shelters have been arranged for displaced residents, while police and civil defence teams are conducting rescue operations.

Weather outlook

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued fresh warnings of heavy to very heavy rainfall in the coming days across the northern belt. With rivers like the Chenab and Tawi already flowing above danger levels, further rainfall is likely to worsen the flood situation.

Authorities have urged people living near riverbanks and hilly regions to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel, and follow safety advisories.