24x7 flood control room to keep eye on Hathnikund Barrage level
New Delhi, July 5
With the memory of the Yamuna level reaching 208.66 metres in the last monsoon in mind, the Delhi Government has taken preemptive action by lanching a new initiative to enhance flood preparedness. It has unveiled a 24×7 flood control room dedicated to monitoring real-time data from the Hathnikund Barrage, the primary source of Yamuna river inflow into the National Capital.
“Last year witnessed the Yamuna river reaching its highest levels in 70 years. Delhi is now fully prepared to manage any flood scenario,” Water Minister Atishi asserted, stressing the importance of real-time collaboration with Hathnikund Barrage officials.
The flood control room, situated at the DM office in East Delhi, will operate around the clock with personnel from multiple departments, ensuring swift action in response to rising water levels. “Once Hathnikund releases over 1 lakh cusecs of water, relief operations will commence immediately,” Atishi assured, highlighting plans for public awareness and evacuation in vulnerable areas.
Immediate action
Once Hathnikund releases over 1 lakh cusecs of water, relief operations will commence immediately. — Atishi , Water minister
Bharadwaj detailed the control room’s capabilities, emphasising its computerised operations designed to efficiently monitor flood-related data. Ministers Atishi and Saurabh Bharadwaj led discussions with key agencies such as the NDRF, Delhi Police, and Army to ensure rapid response capabilities.
During a joint press briefing, AAP ministers Atishi and Bharadwaj announced the establishment of a control room following a pivotal apex committee meeting overseeing flood control measures in the National Capital Territory.
However, criticism swiftly followed from Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva, who derided Atishi’s flood control assurances as “laughable and hollow.” Sachdeva cited previous failures in Atishi’s promises regarding uninterrupted water supply and effective monsoon drainage systems.
“Atishi’s claims about flood control lack credibility, given her track record of failed commitments,” Sachdeva commented critically.
