Delhi Faces Rising Flood Risks as Yamuna Nears Danger Mark

Heavy rains in New Delhi have caused the water level of the Yamuna River to approach critical levels, prompting local authorities to close the Old Railway Bridge (ORB). As of September 1, 2025, the river’s water level reached 204.87 meters, alarmingly close to the danger mark of 205.33 meters. Officials have warned that the next 24 hours are crucial, as further precipitation is anticipated.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of additional rainfall, which could exacerbate the flooding situation. Projections indicate that the Yamuna’s water level may rise to approximately 206 meters by the evening of September 2, 2025, a point at which evacuation becomes necessary.

Record Rainfall and Traffic Disruptions

August 2025 has seen an unprecedented amount of rainfall, with a total of 399.8 mm recorded, breaking a 15-year record for the month. The last time rainfall reached such levels was in August 2010, when 455.8 mm was documented. The heavy rains have caused significant disruptions across the region, including a 12-kilometer traffic jam on the NH48 Delhi-Gurugram highway due to a brief downpour on Monday evening.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta addressed the public, assuring that measures are in place to manage the situation. She confirmed that drains have been thoroughly cleaned, preventing blockages that could exacerbate flooding. “All the gates of the barrage are fully open, and water is being released continuously,” she stated, noting that the river level could potentially rise to 207 meters, which would exceed the flooding threshold experienced in 2023 when levels surpassed 208 meters.

Management of Water Release

To manage the rising water levels, significant amounts of water have been released from both the Hathinikund Barrage and Wazirabad Barrage. As of 09:00 hours on September 1, approximately 329,313 cusecs of water was released from Hathinikund, while Wazirabad contributed an additional 38,900 cusecs. Authorities anticipate that over the next two days, more than 300,000 cusecs will continue to be released.

Delhi Divisional Commissioner Neeraj Semwal indicated that the flooding is expected to impact only the Yamuna floodplain and low-lying areas, alleviating broader concerns about flooding across the entire city. “There is no danger of flooding in the entire Delhi,” he emphasized, while also acknowledging the importance of monitoring the situation closely.

Officials continue to monitor the water levels and weather forecasts closely, urging residents to stay informed and prepared as conditions evolve. With emergency protocols in place, authorities are working to ensure public safety during this critical period.