Delhi On High Alert, Says Arvind Kejriwal As Yamuna Breaches Danger Mark; Evacuation Underway

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convener is himself talking stock of the situation, preparedness of the state government and also the relief measures that are being undertaken.

Kejriwal asserted his government is ready to deal with the situation that may arise. (File Photo/ Getty)

New Delhi: With the water level of Yamuna river in New Delhi breaching the danger mark on Monday evening, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has urged the nearby residents residing in low-lying areas to move to the temporary shelters set up the administration. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convener is himself talking stock of the situation, preparedness of the state government and also the relief measures that are being undertaken. Assuring people of full support and safety, Kejriwal asserted his government is ready to deal with the situation that may arise. The Delhi CM also pointed out that Haryana has released a record 8.28 lakh cusecs water in the Yamuna on Sunday. "This water is likely to reach Delhi by Monday evening and the danger mark in the Yamuna at 207.32 meters is likely to be breached," he had said. Keriwal had also called for an emergency meeting of officials concerned to assess the preparations. As per reports, as many as 2,120 temporary shelters have been set up so far, where food, water and other amenities are being provided. More than 23,800 people will be required to moved out from low-lying areas, according to official estimates. Kejriwal has also urged people to move out of areas likely to be flooded. "Water level (of Yamuna river) is expected to cross the danger mark, today evening. Water can reach here during the next two days with full force, all our officers and ministers are monitoring the situation 24x7," Kejriwal said during a press conference earlier today. Water level of Yamuna River recorded at 204.70 meters today (the warning level is at 204.50 meters), after more than 8 lakh cusecs of water released from Hathni Kund barrage. Delhi  government has issued orders for evacuation and several civil defence volunteers have also been deployed. Due to rising water-level of Yamuna river, vehicle movement on 'Loha Pul' (old iron bridge) over the river has been stopped.

Am meeting officers from all concerned depts at 1 pm to assess the situation and the preparations. https://t.co/gH7JKlSNSV

— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) August 19, 2019

"We have deployed forces. Our department is ready for rescue operations. We got to know that water has been released from Hatni Kund Barrage. We will ensure that people shift to safer places," Lalit Goyal, Civil Defence Officer, told news agency ANI. If previous monsoon situations are to be considered, around 10,000 people need to be evacuated when the water level in Yamuna level crosses the danger mark. As per reports, the administration has already started evacuating people, setting up shelters and rescue boats are on standby.