The Hindu : New Delhi News : Yamuna continues to rise

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Wednesday, Sep 24, 2008
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New Delhi

Yamuna continues to rise

Staff Reporter

Process of evacuating residents from low-lying areas under way

Photo: Sandeep Saxena

ON THE RISE: The flood scene at Usmanpur village in East Delhi on Tuesday.

NEW DELHI: The rising water level in the Yamuna is showing no signs of abating. By late Tuesday evening, the level had risen to 206 metres and is expected to go up to 206.25 by Wednesday afternoon.

The process of evacuating residents from low-lying areas continues and the Delhi government said it had made necessary arrangements to carry out rescue operation in case the level shoots up further.

“Boats have been deployed in 17 sensitive areas and the situation is being monitored closely. We are equipped to handle the situation if the level goes up further,” said a government official.

Allaying fears of flooding in the city, the official said: “The gates of all barrages are being managed, precautions have been taken to prevent a backflow through the drains. The Najafgarh outflow gates have been closed and pumps have been put to use in seven areas, considered traditionally low-lying.”

These pumps are currently being used at Meethapur, Kondli, Molarbund, Jagatpuri, Sonia Vihar and Balbir Vihar.

As part of the rescue operation, 57 boats — of which 20 are motor boats — have been deployed at seven places including Qudsia Ghat, Batla House, Garhi Mandu, Vijay Ghat and Usmanpur. Over 370 life-saving jackets, 63,00 bags and 11 trucks are also at hand.

“The embankments of the city are well protected and there is no immediate threat of floods. The Administration is, however, ready to meet the exigency,” said a senior official.

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