Flood alert in Delhi: Yamuna likely to cross danger line on Sept 2; what travellers should know

In a recent update, a flood alert has been issued for Delhi as the water of the River Yamuna has inched dangerously close to the danger mark. Authorities say the river could rise above safe levels by tomorrow evening, raising fears of flooding in low-lying areas of the capital.A Delhi government order read, “As the water level at the Old Railway Bridge (ORB) in Delhi may cross the danger mark of 206.50 metres, a CWC advisory may be issued soon. All Sector Officers are advised to keep close watch in their areas and take necessary precautions at vulnerable points. People residing along the river embankments must be warned and shifted to safer locations,” Reason behind the alert: Hathnikund Barrage in HaryanaThe warning behind the alert is because of the heavy discharge of water from the Hathnikund Barrage in Haryana.

More than 3 lakh cusecs of water was released from the dam on Monday morning. It is the highest flow recorded this season and this will take some two days to reach Delhi. This is the reason why officials are expecting the Yamuna to flood by Tuesday evening.The Yamuna water level was recorded at 204.87 metres at the Old Railway Bridge by noon today. The danger mark is set at 205.33 metres and the moment the water reaches 206 metres, evacuation of people from floodplains will be necessary.

What to Expect on September 2The Central Water Commission (CWC) has projected that the Yamuna could rise to around 206.50 metres by the evening of 2 September 2025. This would not only cross the danger mark but also touch the level where people living along the riverbanks have to be shifted to safer locations.Response from the governmentWater Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh took to X and posted,

“With over 3 lakh cusecs of water released from Hathnikund, Yamuna’s level is rising and may cross the danger mark later tonight.

I want to assure every citizen — there is no need to panic. Delhi Govt is on high alert, teams are on the ground, and we are fully committed to safeguarding every Delhiite.”Delhi’s Irrigation and Flood Control Department has stationed its teams on high alert. Sector officers have been asked to keep a watch, especially in east and north Delhi. Police, civil defence volunteers, and patrolling teams are on standby.

Relief camps in regions like Mayur Vihar are set up to aid people. Officials have urged residents of low-lying areas to remain prepared and to cooperate if evacuation is ordered.With the Yamuna expected to cross the danger mark soon, Delhi is braced up for the situation.