The Indian capital, Delhi, is facing a flood crisis as the Yamuna river has overflowed its banks and submerged key roads and areas. The river has been rising since Wednesday, reaching 208.46 metres on Thursday – the highest level in 45 years, according to authorities.

Thousands of people have been evacuated from low-lying areas and moved to relief tents. Traffic has been diverted from arterial roads and heavy vehicles have been banned from entering the city. Schools, colleges and universities have been closed until Sunday and government employees have been asked to work from home.

Private offices have also been advised to follow suit. Three water treatment plants have been shut down due to the flood-like situation, leading to water rationing and shortages for the residents. The flood crisis is a result of record rainfall in northern India this monsoon season, which began in June.

At least 88 people have died in Himachal Pradesh due to landslides and flash floods, while neighbouring states like Punjab and Haryana have also been affected. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has appealed to the federal government to control the water release from Hathnikund Barrage in Haryana, which feeds the Yamuna river. He said the water flow from the barrage is expected to subside by Thursday afternoon, bringing some relief to the flooded areas.

The state governor and Mr Kejriwal met the Delhi Disaster Management Authority on Thursday to review the situation and coordinate rescue efforts. Monsoon rains are vital for India but also cause deaths and destruction every year. Experts say climate change caused by global warming makes extreme rainfall more likely.

Source : BBC news

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