Yamuna water level to touch highest level in 35 years

, June 19: The

in the

is about to rise over 207 metres, the highest recorded in the last 35 years. More than 1,500 people have been shifted from low0lying areas in east Delhi like Yamuna Bazar, Usmanpur, Bhajanpura and Shastri Park and relief camps have been set up to give them shelter.

The Yamuna crossed the danger mark here on Tuesday and the water level is expected to rise further on Wednesday once water from the Hathnikund barrage reaches the capital.

Haryana has released over 9,00,000 cusecs of water into the Yamuna in the last two days. Sources in the Flood Control and irrigation department said the river's water level crossed the danger mark of 204.83 metres at 7 am on Tuesday and touched 205.58 metres at 7 pm. By Wednesday noon, it is expected to cross 207 metre mark.

Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit said the situation was under control and the administration was ready to face any eventuality.

The Old Yamuna Bridge, which connects east Delhi with the heart of the capital, was shut for both rail and road traffics on Tuesday morning after the water level in Yamuna touched threatening levels. The closure diverted traffic and resulted in choking of various streets in the area.

Dikshit said she was closely monitoring the flood situation and the Yamuna's water level apart from keeping in connection with agencies looking after the people's safety.

OneIndia News