Officials Ramp Up Relief Measures As Yamuna River Exceeds 'Low Flood Level' In Agra

The rising river has caused localized inundation, affecting roads, a crematorium, and historic sites, prompting authorities to intensify preparedness measures in anticipation of potential flood-like situations.

Outlook Web Desk

Updated on: 16 July 2023 5:20 pm

Swollen Yamuna river

As the water level of the Yamuna River in Agra reached 495.8 feet, slightly surpassing the 'low flood level,' officials have intensified their efforts to handle potential flood-like situations. The rising river has resulted in the flooding of nearby roads, a crematorium in Tajganj, and has encroached upon the Itmad-ud-daulah monument.

District Magistrate Navneet Chahal conducted inspections in low-lying areas of Agra and instructed concerned officials to make necessary arrangements, according to PTI.?The Assistant District Magistrate (Finance and Revenue), Yashvardhan Srivastav, informed that the water level in Yamuna had reached 495.8 feet by 4 pm on Sunday, with the low-flood level at 495 feet, medium flood level at 499 feet, and high flood level at 508 feet.

In response to the situation, Srivastava assured readiness to tackle a potential flood-like scenario. Precautionary measures such as the installation of barricades along the river ghats from Kailash Temple in Sikandra to the Dusshera Ghat near the Taj Mahal have been implemented. Additionally, arrangements near villages along the Agra district bordering the Chambal river have been strengthened, including the setup of medical camps.

The rise in Yamuna's water level in Agra is attributed to the release of water from the Okhla Barrage and Gokul Barrage in Mathura, where all seven gates have been opened, resulting in the discharge of 1,06,473 cusecs and 1,24,302 cusecs of water respectively within the last 24 hours.