Flood Alert in Delhi: Hathini Kund Barrage Opens 18 Gates as Yamuna Water Level Rises

Heavy rainfall across Uttarakhand has significantly increased the water level of the Yamuna River, creating a flood threat downstream in Delhi. On Friday, the water discharge at Hathini Kund Barrage crossed 67,034 cusecs, forcing authorities to open 18 gates and divert massive water flow toward the capital.

Rising Yamuna Water Level at Hathini Kund Barrage

The Hathini Kund Barrage, built on the Yamuna, recorded water discharge far above the normal range. Officials confirmed that the total release on Friday measured 67,034 cusecs, with 58,514 cusecs flowing into the Yamuna, 7,010 cusecs into the Western Yamuna Canal, and 1,510 cusecs into the Eastern Yamuna Canal.

This rapid increase is a direct result of relentless rainfall in the Himalayan foothills. Authorities stated that floodgates had to be opened immediately to prevent excessive pressure on the barrage structure.

Impact on Delhi: 48 Hours Window

According to irrigation department officials, the released water typically takes 48 to 50 hours to reach Delhi. This means that by the weekend, the capital may witness a significant rise in Yamuna’s water level.

Officials have issued alerts to disaster management teams in Delhi, emphasizing that flood-like conditions may emerge if rainfall continues in upper catchment areas. The barrage staff has been instructed to remain on 24-hour alert as the situation remains fluid.

Heavy Rainfall Raises Concerns

The continuous downpour in Uttarakhand has already led to swelling rivers across northern India. Meteorological forecasts suggest that rainfall will persist in the region over the coming days, further raising the risk of water levels rising in major rivers.

Officials said that the barrage has already been functioning under pressure, and given the high inflow, water diversion was the only option. They added that if the rains continue, discharge may increase further, intensifying flood threats downstream.

Tangri River Reaches Danger Mark

Apart from the Yamuna, Ambala’s Tangri River is also swelling rapidly. Reports confirm that its water level has nearly reached the danger mark, sparking widespread concerns in nearby regions.

The irrigation department stated that the water level is expected to rise further if heavy rainfall continues. In response, the administration has issued a high alert in Ambala district. Schools in low-lying areas have been temporarily closed to ensure student safety.

On Friday, Haryana’s Energy and Transport Minister, Anil Vij, visited flood-prone areas near the Tangri River. He assessed the preparedness of local administration and instructed officials to remain vigilant.

Teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been placed on alert, while irrigation department engineers and police units are stationed at the Tangri embankment to monitor the situation continuously.

Flood Preparedness in Haryana

The state government has directed all districts along the Yamuna belt to stay alert. Relief centers are being prepared in advance in vulnerable areas. NDRF and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) teams are on standby to conduct evacuations if required.

The focus is on ensuring that residents of flood-prone villages are warned in time and necessary arrangements are made for relocation if the Yamuna water level crosses danger levels in Delhi and adjoining states.

IMD Rainfall Alert for Haryana

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a heavy rainfall alert for five districts in Haryana until September 3. Yamunanagar, Ambala, Panchkula, Kurukshetra, and Karnal are expected to receive moderate to heavy rain accompanied by thunder and strong winds.

Officials highlighted that Haryana has already recorded above-average rainfall this season. As of August 28, the state was expected to receive 341 mm of rainfall, but actual measurements stood at 423 mm. This surplus has put additional stress on rivers and canals in the region.

Possible Consequences for Delhi

With over 67,000 cusecs released from Hathini Kund Barrage, experts warn that Delhi may face flooding in low-lying areas near the Yamuna. Localities like Kashmere Gate, Yamuna Bazar, ITO, and Mayur Vihar Extension are typically affected when water levels rise sharply.

Authorities in Delhi have begun preparing for potential evacuations. Temporary shelters are being set up for residents living along riverbanks. Emergency response teams have been alerted to prevent loss of life and property.

Government and Public Advisory

Authorities have urged residents of vulnerable areas to remain cautious and avoid venturing near the swollen river. Fishermen and boatmen have been instructed not to enter the Yamuna during high discharge periods.

The Delhi government’s flood control department is monitoring the situation closely. They have advised citizens to follow updates through official channels and not to spread rumors or unverified information.

Broader Regional Impact

The situation at Hathini Kund Barrage is not isolated but part of a larger monsoon crisis affecting northern states. Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, and parts of Uttar Pradesh have been witnessing heavy rain and overflowing rivers.

Officials fear that if rainfall continues at the same pace, multiple rivers in north India may exceed danger levels, affecting both rural and urban regions. Preparations are being made for large-scale disaster management if required.

The sudden surge in water discharge from Hathini Kund Barrage highlights the intensity of monsoon rains in northern India. With 18 gates opened and 67,034 cusecs of water released, Delhi faces an immediate flood threat in the next two days.

Meanwhile, the Tangri River in Ambala is already on the verge of crossing danger levels, prompting a high alert in Haryana. With the IMD forecasting more rainfall until September 3, authorities across the region are bracing for worsening conditions.

For Delhi and neighboring states, the next 48 hours will be crucial in determining the scale of impact. As emergency teams remain on standby, citizens are being urged to remain cautious and follow official safety advisories to minimize risks during this period of heightened flood danger.