Floods in Delhi as Yamuna River overflows; see photos
Key highways in the Indian capital, Delhi, have been flooded as water from the Yamuna River has burst onto them.
The water status of the river has been increasing since Wednesday after it broke an all-time high record in more than 45 years.
Yamuna River swells, leading to floods:
Authorities have vacated thousands from nearby low-lying places and have diverted traffic from arterial roadways. Officers say Northern India has witnessed record precipitation this monsoon season, which started in June.
At least 88 people have passed away in Himachal Pradesh since showers started late last month, while nearby regions like Punjab and Haryana have even witnessed severe flooding.
On Thursday morning, the water status of Yamuna had increased to 208.46 metres from 207.49 metres the prior day – the highest in 45 years, authorities said.
Water from the swelling river has flooded several low-lying places and roads. Videos on the internet show cars and buses dipped underwater on the streets.
Video from local TV media showed the road outside Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s house flooded. At the same time, the PTI press agency said that a critical road heading towards Connaught Place – a prominent business centre in central Delhi – was also flooded.
Mr Kejriwal told journalists on Thursday that schools, colleges and universities in the city would remain closed till Sunday. He said that government workers, except those providing essential assistance, could work from home.
“Advisory is being issued for private offices too to work from home,” he continued.
Three water treatment works in Delhi have been closed due to the flood. Mr Kejriwal has said that water must be provided, so people will probably face shortages for a few days.
Heavy vehicles, excluding those providing essential services, have been barred from entering the capital. Around 16,000 people have been moved to relief tents pitched under flyovers by the Delhi government.
