Hathnikund Barrage Releases 1.78 Lakh Cusecs; Authorities on High Alert

After continuous heavy rainfall in northern India, the Yamuna River at the Hathnikund barrage in Yamunanagar recorded a flow of 1.78 lakh cusecs on Sunday. This has prompted a medium flood alert for Haryana, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh. All 18 floodgates at the barrage have been opened as precautionary measures.

Record Water Flow Amid Heavy Monsoon Rains

Officials from the Irrigation and Water Resources Department reported that this is the highest water level recorded this monsoon season, caused by heavy rainfall in upstream catchment areas.

• Water flow classification:

  • Low flood: 70,000 – 1.5 lakh cusecs

  • Medium flood: 1.5 lakh – 2.5 lakh cusecs

  • High flood: Over 2.5 lakh cusecs

Note: One cusec equals 28.32 litres per second.

Water levels began rising at 7 AM, reaching 1 lakh cusecs by 1 PM (low flood warning), and 1.78 lakh cusecs by 3 PM (medium flood warning). Low-lying areas in Yamunanagar, Karnal, Panipat, and Sonepat are expected to be affected, with the water potentially reaching Delhi within 48 hours. The Central Water Commission (CWC) has also issued an alert for the national capital.

Overflowing Rivers Increase Risk

Heavy rains have caused other rivers to swell, including the Som River in Yamunanagar. Water levels surpassed the danger mark of 10,000 cusecs, reaching over 24,000 cusecs, affecting nearby villages such as Dhanaura.

While the Som and Pathrala rivers have started receding, waterlogging remains severe in surrounding areas. Residents and commuters have been advised to remain vigilant.

Authorities Actively Monitor the Situation

Vyaspur Sub-Divisional Magistrate Jaspal Singh Gill and DSP Harvindra Singh inspected critical riverbanks, including the Nakti and Som rivers in Sadhaura and Vyaspur.

Key updates:

• Floodwater management and embankments have been implemented in villages such as Ranjitpur, Ranipur, Bhamanoli, Chintpur, Khanuwala, and Malikpur Bangar.

• Recent rainfall measurements:

  • Pratap Nagar: 99mm

  • Jagadhari: 78mm

  • Chhachrauli: 50mm

  • Sadhaura: 48mm

  • Saraswati Nagar: 40mm

  • Vyaspur: 30mm

  • Radaur: 13mm

Authorities continue 24/7 monitoring of sensitive regions, including Khanuwala, Chintpur, and Manipur, to ensure the safety of residents and prevent further flooding.

Safety Measures for Residents

Officials advise residents in low-lying areas to:

• Stay away from riverbanks, streams, and waterlogged zones.

• Follow local administration instructions.

• Keep emergency helpline numbers handy for quick assistance.

The administration has assured full preparedness to manage the medium flood situation, protecting lives and property.