NEW DELHI: With Yamuna waters breaching the danger mark in Delhi, government has announced flood alert in Trans Yamuna areas of North-East and East Delhi. Evacuation camps have been set up and close watch is being kept on rising water levels. Delhi deputy chief minister Manish Sisodia on Sunday took stock of the ongoing evacuation exercise, a day after the water level of the Yamuna river crossed the danger mark. The Irrigation and Flood Control department and the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) deployed boats and set up tents for the people living in close vicinity to the Yamuna water bed.
More than 1,000 families evacuated till Sunday evening, the danger mark has crossed 204.83 meters in the national capital. Neighbouring state of Haryana had released around six lakh cusecs of water from which the officials expect the river to rise to 206.60 meters on July 31. The water discharged from Hathnikund barrage, normally reaches Delhi in 72 hours.
The highest level that Yamuna river reached in Delhi was of 207.49 meters in 1978. Earlier Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal reviewed the government's preparedness to tackle the flood-like situation government has also requested the Army to be on standby for any emergency. The Central Water Commission official flood forecast said the river is now flowing in a "severe situation" at Delhi Railway bridge North district of Delhi. The current water level is of 205.44 meters. "Water level in Yamuna river is at 205.46 m (above danger mark). Till now, 1500 people have moved from low-lying areas. 550 tents pitched across 10 locations in East district. If more people need to be evacuated and accommodated, we have identified schools and night shelters" said Ajay Kumar ADM, East Delhi.