Yamuna nears danger level in Capital

Amid heavy rain, water level in the Yamuna River has reached 203.84 metres,  just 16cm below its danger mark which is 204.83 metres.

The flood and Irrigation Department of the Delhi Government said water level in the river may touch dangerous level by Saturday if the rain continues.

Rising water level in Yamuna can be a problem for people residing near riverbed. Around 15,000-20,000 people are living in slums on the bank of the Yamuna.

Moreover, various agricultural activities are also taking place essential for the livelihood of slum people.

Significantly, Haryana, the neighbouring State, has also released 1.36 lakh cusecs water from Hathinikund Barrage while on Friday 83,241 cusec was released.

 According to officials in Flood and control department, “The water level in Hathnikund barrage has increased alarmingly due to heavy rainfall in the hills.”

The water discharged from Hathnikund barrage -- which provides drinking water to New Delhi -- normally takes 72 hours to reach the city, he said.

An advisory has also been issued by the department regarding the water level, he added.