In a live update on the Delhi flood situation, the Central Water Commission reported that the water level of the Yamuna river has stabilized at 208.48 meters as of 8 am today. However, the flood-like conditions have resulted in the inundation of shanties, prompting the closure of shops and schools in affected areas.
New Dehli: (Tamsil Shahezad Khan) Following heavy rainfall and the release of water from the Hathnikund Barrage, numerous parts of the city are grappling with floods and waterlogging. The Yamuna water level in Delhi has experienced a rapid surge in recent days. Within a span of 18 hours, it escalated from 203.14 meters at 11 am on Sunday to 205.4 meters at 5 pm on Monday, surpassing the danger mark of 205.33 meters.
As a precautionary measure in flood-prone areas, the Delhi police have imposed section 144 CrPC. The Delhi government has undertaken an evacuation plan, relocating a total of 16,564 individuals residing in low-lying regions to safer places. Currently, 14,534 people are residing in tents and shelters across the city.
Addressing the imminent crisis, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal wrote a letter to the Central Water Commission, urging urgent measures to mitigate the situation. Meanwhile, the heavy rains and flooding have caused an estimated loss of ₹200 crore in business, according to a traders' body. Notable markets such as Old Delhi, Kashmiri Gate, Chandni Chowk, and Lajpat Rai Market have been significantly affected.
The flood-like conditions have not only disrupted life in Delhi but have also impacted crematoria near the raging Yamuna, making it challenging for grieving families to conduct last rites. Nigambodh Ghat, a preferred location for funerals, is flooded and rendered practically non-functional. The Municipal Corporation of Delhi has issued an advisory, urging people to avoid Nigambodh Ghat for carrying out last rites. The crematorium in Geeta Colony has also been closed due to the rising water levels. Authorities have advised citizens to utilize alternative cremation grounds at Panchkuian Road, Sat Nagar, Punjabi Bagh, Green Park, Dakshinpuri, or preferably within their own neighborhoods.