NEW DELHI: CM Rekha Gupta on Tuesday visited flood-affected areas and relief camps near Geeta Colony flyover and the old iron bridge to assess the situation as the Yamuna inched towards the evacuation mark. She met families in camps, heard their concerns, and assured them that the government is fully committed to providing support.
Gupta emphasised that there is “no need to panic” as the situation remains under control, adding that the administration is maintaining round-the-clock vigil. “All departments are working tirelessly to mitigate the impact; citizens’ safety and well-being remain our top priority,” she said.
During her visit, the chief minister directed officials to ensure uninterrupted supply of clean drinking water, food, medicines, and safe accommodation. She noted that advance preparations — including desilting of the Yamuna and city drains over the past six months — had already shown positive results this year.
“All barrage gates along the Yamuna are open, and water is flowing downstream freely. Barricades on the city-side drains have been closed to manage the flow. Current data shows water levels are not expected to surpass past records,” she said. Gupta clarified that water entering the Yamuna floodplains was part of the river’s natural course and posed no risk to the outer parts of the city.
Officials said the maximum water released from Haryana’s Hathnikund barrage reached Delhi by Tuesday evening. On Monday, Gupta had said that while residents of the floodplains would face difficulties, inundation would be limited to that area. She pointed out that in 2023, the water level had peaked at 208.66 metres, higher than current projections.
The chief minister also held telephonic conversations with her counterparts in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Haryana to discuss the flood situation in their states. She expressed solidarity with the affected regions and said Delhi was ready to extend all possible assistance.
“The floods have caused widespread disruption to lives and property, displacing families and damaging roads and communication networks. The government stands firmly with the people of these states in this difficult time,” Gupta said. She added that officials are submitting hourly updates on the situation, and relief operations will continue as long as needed. Appealing for public cooperation, she urged residents of city to follow safety guidelines issued by the administration.