Delhi floods: Waterlogging persists; more rainfall add to woes of residents
New Delhi, July 16: Heavy rains and the release of water from the Hathni Kund Barrage in Haryana have exacerbated the severe flooding situation in Delhi. The authorities are facing challenges in draining out the floodwaters, leading to prolonged waterlogging in various parts of the city.
Delhi witnessed another bout of heavy rainfall, worsening the already dire flood situation. Despite continuous efforts by civic workers to flush out water near the Supreme Court and other key areas, massive traffic jams and waterlogging persisted. The Yamuna river's water level, although slightly receding, remained above the danger mark, causing concerns.
#WATCH | Yamuna River continues to overflow, nearby areas and key roads remain affected due to waterlogging in Delhi
The water level in Yamuna river was recorded at 206.02 mtrs at 0800 hours in Delhi. pic.twitter.com/Nznaf3OQvM — ANI (@ANI) July 16, 2023
The flooding has resulted in the displacement of both humans and animals, with evacuation efforts underway. The scarcity of food in low-lying areas has heightened the urgency of the situation. The local government has deployed over 4,500 traffic personnel to manage congestion and assist commuters. Entry of non-essential heavy goods vehicles into the city has been restricted.
#WATCH | Delhi: Waterlogging issues persist in parts of capital as Yamuna River continues to overflow
(Visuals from Kashmere Gate) pic.twitter.com/w5t34fxFxo — ANI (@ANI) July 16, 2023
Additionally, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has assured residents that efforts are being made to open all five gates of the Yamuna Barrage to facilitate drainage.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, upon his return from a foreign visit, contacted Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena to inquire about the relief and rescue operations. The Prime Minister pledged support from the central government to address the situation. The Delhi Disaster Management Authority has ordered the closure of non-essential government offices, schools, and colleges until Sunday to prioritize public safety.
#WATCH | Delhi: Commuters face problems due to waterlogging situation; visuals from Kashmere Gate area pic.twitter.com/xrInY9qWJy — ANI (@ANI) July 16, 2023
Amid the flood crisis, three boys tragically drowned while attempting to swim in the floodwaters in northwest Delhi's Mukundpur Chowk area. These were the first reported casualties in the city since the Yamuna water crossed the danger mark.
Delhi continues to grapple with severe flooding caused by heavy rainfall and the overflow of the Yamuna river. The government, along with various authorities, is working tirelessly to address the situation, ensure public safety, and provide relief to affected residents. Efforts are focused on draining floodwaters and mitigating the challenges posed by the ongoing rainfall.
- With inputs from agencies
