Flood-hit people return home after Yamuna recedes

The water level of the Yamuna River has receded further and reached 204.31 metres on Thursday after it rose to its highest danger level in the last five years.

Many of people residing in low-lying areas of Yamuna catchment who had taken shelter school compounds and makeshift tents at safer location started to return after water level started receding.

“The level is showing a downward trend and is expected to reach 204.18 metres by Thursday evening," a senior official of a Flood Control Department said.

The water level of the river, which had crossed the danger mark of 204.83 metres since July 28, reached 204.82 metres on Wednesday afternoon after which it started receding, a Flood Control Department official.

Following decline in water level, traffic movement on Old Yamuna Bridge has been opened for public.

A total of 13,915 people have been moved to safer places due to the rising water levels. They have been accommodated in 1,461 tents and temporary shelters, where they are being provided food and medical help, a Delhi Government official said.

The highest water level recorded at Old Yamuna Bridge was 207.49 metres in 1978. It was 207.11 metres in 2010 and 207.32 metres in 2013, according to the Delhi Disaster Management Authority.

"People, who were recently displaced, will remain in safer places as authorities have been monitoring the water level of Yamuna. Once we are sure that there is no danger to the lives of people, they will be shifted back to their homes," the official added.