Explainer: Yamuna on the rise, flood fear looms from Hathnikund to Delhi
The Yamuna river has once again turned into a source of anxiety for thousands of families living along it in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. After the incessant rainfall in the northern region, the water flow at the Hathnikund barrage in Yamunanagar surged to 1.78 lakh cusecs on Sunday, the highest discharge recorded this monsoon season so far, compelling the authorities to open floodgates at the barrage. The sudden rise has sparked fears of flash floods among the people. Residents fear crop destruction, displacement and other possible losses. The authorities also declared it a medium flood situation.
What triggered the sudden rise in the Yamuna water level?
The sharp increase in water level is a result of heavy rainfall in the upstream catchment areas, especially in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, which feed the Yamuna and its tributaries. Downpours led to a surge in water at the Hathnikund barrage. To manage the pressure, the authorities released excess water downstream, raising flood risks in Yamunanagar, Karnal, Panipat, Sonepat, and eventually Delhi.
How is flood intensity categorised in the Yamuna?
As per the officials of the Irrigation Department, water levels between 75,000 cusecs and 1.25 lakh cusecs fall under the low flood category, between 1.25 lakh and 2.5 lakh cusecs under the medium flood category, and above 2.5 lakh cusecs are considered the high flood category. With the flow touching 1.78 lakh cusecs, the current situation falls under the medium flood category.
How does the Hathnikund barrage play a role in flood management?
The Hathnikund barrage, built on the Yamuna in Yamunanagar, regulates water flow towards Delhi and other downstream regions. As per the guidelines, 352 cubic feet discharge per second is mandatory to maintain environmental flow in the river, but during heavy rains, the flow multiplies. There are two major off taking channels –Eastern Yamuna Canal and Western Yamuna Canal which flows in UP and Haryana, respectively.
What are the reasons behind the flood threat?
As per the authorities there are several factors responsible for flash-flood risk. Apart from heavy rainfall, sudden discharge from Hathnikund directly impacts the Yamuna flow in the downstream regions. Settlements and construction projects have reduced the Yamuna’s natural capacity to absorb excess water, which also leads to flooding. Besides, continuous siltation has narrowed the channel and also restricts water flow.
What steps is the administration taking?
After the heavy discharge of water in the Yamuna, flood alerts have been sounded across vulnerable districts. Warnings are being issued, embankments have been strengthened in sensitive villages along the river. Field visits by district officials ensure continuous monitoring of embankments and waterlogged areas.
What long-term measures are needed to reduce Yamuna flooding?
Experts suggest strict regulation of construction on floodplains, check on mining, desilting of the Yamuna’s bed to restore its natural carrying capacity and pre-monsoon flood preparedness work, instead of reactive arrangements can be taken for long-term measures.
Haryana Tribune