Introduction
The water level of the Yamuna River has finally stabilized after a continuous rise over the past four days. This significant development brings relief to the residents and authorities who were deeply concerned about the relentless increase in water levels. In this article, we will delve into the recent developments, record-breaking measurements, impact on infrastructure, and ongoing efforts to address the situation.
The Rise and Stability of Yamuna River Water Level
After four consecutive days of steady rise, the water level of the Yamuna River has finally reached a stable point. For the past three hours, there has been no further increase in the water level. Remarkably, at both 1 pm and 2 pm on Thursday, the water level stood at 208.62 meters. This comes after the water levels broke a 45-year-old record, reaching 208.48 meters at 11 pm on Wednesday.
Impact on Infrastructure and Transportation
In light of the rising water levels, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has taken precautionary measures to ensure the safety of commuters. Consequently, the entry and exit points of the Yamuna Bank metro station on the Blue Line have been temporarily closed. However, it is important to note that the interchange facility remains operational, and services on the Blue Line are functioning normally.
Moreover, heavy rainfall has caused extensive flooding in various parts of the city. Areas such as Majnu Ka Tila, Mayur Vihar Phase 1, Monastery Market, Geeta Colony, and multiple sections of Ring Road near Kashmere Gate have been submerged. The magnitude of the flooding has resulted in the suspension of bus services from the Kashmere Gate Bus Terminal, the largest bus terminal in the national capital.
Disruption of Water Treatment Facilities
As the water levels of the Yamuna River continue to rise, several water treatment plants have been temporarily shut down. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal personally visited the Wazirabad water treatment plant and assured that it would be restarted once the situation normalizes. The closure of these plants has led to challenges in maintaining a stable water supply to the affected areas, necessitating prompt resolution of the issue.
Evacuation and Relief Measures
In response to the escalating crisis, extensive evacuation efforts have been undertaken to ensure the safety of residents. As of Wednesday, approximately 16,500 individuals from six districts have been successfully evacuated and provided shelter in 2,500 relief camps. These proactive measures aim to mitigate potential risks and provide immediate assistance to those affected by the rising water levels.
Urgent Call for Intervention
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has urgently appealed to the central government to intervene and address the issue of water release from the Hathni Kund barrage in Haryana. The aim is to prevent further exacerbation of the situation and establish effective measures for managing water levels in the Yamuna River. Prompt action is crucial to avoid any additional challenges and ensure the well-being of the residents.
The stabilization of the Yamuna River’s water level after a relentless surge brings a sense of relief to the affected regions. However, the closure of the Yamuna Bank metro station, disruption of water treatment plants, and widespread flooding highlight the immediate challenges faced by the authorities. Through evacuation and relief efforts, the government is actively working to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens. The urgent appeal for intervention from the central government reflects the need for a comprehensive approach to manage the water levels in the Yamuna River effectively. Continued efforts and coordination are essential to prevent future crises and maintain the stability of the Yamuna River for the benefit of all.
