Saturday, September 12, 2009

Yamuna flood threat in Delhi

NEW DELHI:

NEW DELHI: September the month when monsoon is supposed to withdraw from the region has brought not only rain for Delhi but also the possibility of
floods.

Due to heavy rain in the catchment areas of the Yamuna recently, 4,21,454 cusecs of water was released at Hathnikund on September 11. This is expected to reach Delhi by Saturday afternoon by when the Yamuna water level would breach the danger mark of 204.83m. The state government has issued instructions for evacuation of those living in low-lying areas and arrangements are in place for rescue operations.

"On September 12 at noon, the level will cross the danger level of 204.83m with the likelihood of rising further,'' said an official.

Irrigation and flood control minister R K Chauhan told TOI: "We will release the excess water downstream. However, we have given directions to evacuate everyone staying in low-lying areas.''


TOI