Key roads in Delhi, the capital of India, have been inundated as the Yamuna river overflows, causing widespread flooding. The water level of the river has been rising since Wednesday, surpassing a 45-year high mark. Authorities have evacuated residents from low-lying areas and diverted traffic from major roads. Northern India has experienced record rainfall during this year’s monsoon season, leading to severe flooding in states like Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Haryana.
Flood Impact and Evacuations
As the water level of the Yamuna river reached its highest point in 45 years, several low-lying areas and roads have been submerged. Authorities have closed 17 schools in flooded areas and redirected traffic away from waterlogged streets. Videos showed Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s residence surrounded by floodwaters, while a key road leading to Connaught Place, a prominent business center, was also flooded. Over 16,000 individuals have been relocated to relief tents set up by the Delhi government.
Government Response and Relief Efforts
Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has appealed to the federal government to regulate the release of water from the Hathnikund Barrage in Haryana, which he believes is contributing to the swelling of the Yamuna river. Authorities expect the flow of water from the barrage to subside by Thursday afternoon, bringing some relief to the affected areas. The Delhi Disaster Management Authority is scheduled to meet with the state’s governor to discuss the flood situation. The government has established relief camps under flyovers to accommodate those displaced by the floods.
Climate Change and Flooding
India has been grappling with increasingly extreme weather events in recent years. Climate change, attributed to global warming, has been identified as a contributing factor, making heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding more frequent. While monsoon rains are essential for India’s agriculture and water resources, they also pose risks of casualties and property damage. The recent flooding follows a severe heatwave that affected northern India.
Delhi is facing severe flooding as the Yamuna river breaches a 45-year high mark, submerging key roads and low-lying areas. The Indian government has initiated evacuation efforts and relief measures to assist affected residents. The occurrence of extreme weather events in India highlights the potential influence of climate change, emphasizing the need for mitigation and adaptation strategies to address the growing risks associated with floods and other natural disasters.
Source: BBC
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