New Delhi:
The water level in Yamuna is rising in Delhi. The eight cusecs of water released by Haryana from the Hathnikund barrage has entered Delhi, putting the lives of those living on the banks of the river at risk.
But those in the harm's way are not yet ready to move to higher ground. "We will wait and watch, then take a call. Even in 2010, when the water had touched the level of our door, we moved the most essential goods to a boat and stayed there for a week," said Sarita, who lives a few feet away from the bank of the river near ISBT, Kashmere Gate in central Delhi.
She and her neighbour Padma say their belongings are packed, but they are watching the water level in the river closely and will take a call about moving out from the area later.
The water level in Yamuna has already crossed the danger mark of 204.8 metres and is expected to rise further. So, the Delhi government is making repeated announcements, asking people living in low-lying areas to move to safer locations.
As part of its evacuation plan, the Delhi administration has kept rescue boats on stand-by.
Divisional Commissioner Dharam Pal said the situation is being closely monitored and the exact number of people in camps will be updated this evening.
Delhi Chief Secretary DM Spolia said that water discharge from Hathnikund barrage was likely to be highest this year.
The highest flood levels recorded were 207.49 metres in 1978 and 207.11 metres in 2010.