Delhi is currently on high alert as the Yamuna River is in spate due to heavy monsoon rains and water released from barrage and has crossed the warning level for the third time this season. People living in low -lying areas are being advised to be prepared to prevent floods.

On Friday evening, the river water level on the Old Railway Bridge rose to 205.25 meters, which was just 0.08 meters below the official threat marks from 205.33 meters. Earlier on the same day, it had already crossed the 204.5-meter warning limit, which was the highest reading ever this season.

These alarming levels are a result of sustained high discharges from the Hathnikund Barrage, which peaked at 65,861 cusecs on Thursday afternoon. Such volumes have been persistently released, and they typically take about 48 hours to reach Delhi meaning further here may yet come.

Bhim Singh Rawat, an environmental expert and associated with SANDRP, says that even though the rising water level can cause flood situation, these flows are also very important to restore the health of the river and recharge the ground water reserves - that is, a positive aspect is also present in a stressful situation.

The administration is ready for the worst situation. As soon as the water level of the river reaches 206 meters, the process of evolution will be implemented immediately and announcements are already being made for people living in sensitive areas to go to safe places.

Delhi’s flood season memories are still fresh, especially when the Yamuna hovered above 208 metres during the 2023 floods. This year’s rapid build, though not yet catastrophic, is stirring early concern and vigilance among residents and officials alike.