Yamuna Surges Past 207 m in Delhi—Over 7,500 Evacuated as Floodwaters Spread

Amid heavy monsoon rains and sustained barrage releases, Yamuna crossed the 207 m mark in Delhi—its third-highest level in 63 years. With over 7,500 residents relocated and critical infrastructure submerged, authorities have issued flood alerts and launched evacuation and rescue operations across the city.

Delhi Flood Alert: Yamuna Surpasses 207 Metres; Thousands Evacuated, Emergency Response Underway

Extreme Water Levels Signal Dire Situation

On September 3, 2025, the Yamuna river at Delhi’s Old Railway Bridge surged past the critical 207 metre threshold—an ominous sign for the capital city. By 1 pm, it had climbed above 207 m, already well beyond the 206 m evacuation benchmark. This marks only the third-highest level recorded in the past 63 years. Heavy discharge from the Hathnikund barrage, combined with relentless monsoon rains, is the chief driver behind this alarming rise.

Evacuations and Shelter Operations in Full Swing

In response to swelling waters, Delhi authorities have evacuated more than 7,500 residents from low-lying areas across East, North, Southeast, Northeast, and Central Delhi, relocating them to 25 relief camps including schools and tent shelters. Other reports indicate evacuation numbers could be higher. For instance, Rediff notes 8,018 people moved to tents and 2,030 to permanent shelters. The NDTV report even mentions over 14,000 evacuees and relief camps at ITO, Mayur Vihar, and Geeta Colony.

Floodwaters Inundate Key Areas, Disrupt Infrastructure

Floodwaters inundated vital zones including markets, residential neighbourhoods, and significant landmarks. In areas like Civil Lines, Monastery Market, Vishwakarma Colony, Kashmere Gate, and Mayur Vihar, water breached roads and buildings.

Authorities closed critical transport infrastructure, notably the Old Railway (Loha) Bridge, to ensure public safety. Traffic snarls became widespread as major thoroughfares like Outer Ring Road, Ring Road, Kalindi Kunj, and Bela Road experienced severe congestion and waterlogging. Metro access was also affected—e.g., the approach road to Yamuna Bank Metro Station was submerged, prompting commuters to adapt routes.

Even Nigambodh Ghat, Delhi’s oldest and busiest cremation ground, saw floodwater intrusion, leading to reduced or suspended operations.

Relief Challenges: Health Risks and Logistical Strain

Relief camps are grappling with inadequate sanitation and limited medical resources. Many displaced families report subpar hygiene conditions, minimal medical aid, and outbreaks of waterborne illnesses. Cases of persistent coughs and other ailments have gone untreated due to the absence of healthcare support within camps.

In hard-hit neighboring regions like Noida and Ghaziabad, the situation is similarly precarious. Close to 2,500 people in Noida (and approximately 2,000 animals) have been relocated from vulnerable villages to government shelters. The NDRF has rescued 25 families in Ghaziabad, where the Yamuna soared to 211.7 m, beyond the 209 m danger mark.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued flood alerts across Delhi, Noida, and Ghaziabad, warning of ongoing rainfall and rising water levels. Authorities are coordinating evacuation, relief, and traffic management efforts across the NCR.

Traffic advisories, diversions, and public warnings are in effect—especially around vulnerable corridors near Signature Bridge, Rajghat, Outer Ring Road, and flood-prone roads.

Officials remain vigilant. The Irrigation & Flood Control Minister emphasized that flood channel capacity has been enhanced and expressed confidence that even at 209 m, Delhi would remain protected. Authorities also foresee water levels stabilizing or receding by late Wednesday or Thursday evening The Times of India.

The Yamuna’s surge above 207 metres—its third-highest level since 1963—signals one of the capital’s most severe flood crises in recent memory. With thousands displaced, major infrastructure disrupted, and relief systems strained, the situation remains critical. Authorities must continue emergency operations, improve relief camp conditions, and manage the additional challenge of expected rainfall to safeguard public wellbeing.

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