Amid rising water levels in the Yamuna River, authorities on Sunday opened all 18 gates of the Hathinikund Barrage—the first such move this monsoon season.
According to Vijay Garg, Executive Engineer of the Irrigation Department, the surge was triggered by heavy rainfall, bringing in nearly 1.78 lakh cusecs of water, the highest inflow recorded this year.
“1.78 lakh cusec of water has come into the river after the recent rainfall. This is the highest water level of this season,” Garg said.
The development comes as several rivers, including the Ganga, witness rising water levels following widespread rains across north India.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had earlier issued a Tehsil-level Nowcast for Haryana and Punjab, forecasting thunderstorms, lightning, and varying intensities of rainfall across multiple districts.
- Haryana: Heavy rainfall with thunderstorms is expected in parts of Karnal, Indri, Thanesar, Nilokheri, Radaur, Barara, Jagadhri, and Chhachhrauli, while moderate showers may occur in Ambala, Panchkula, Kaithal, Shahabad, and adjoining regions.
- Punjab: Moderate rainfall with thunderstorms is predicted in Patiala, Mohali, Fatehgarh Sahib, Rup Nagar, and Anandpur Sahib, with light rain in Ludhiana, Sangrur, Amritsar, Pathankot, and nearby areas.
The IMD clarified that no severe warnings have been issued but urged residents to remain cautious, particularly against sudden thunderstorms and winds reaching 30–40 kmph.
Authorities have advised the public to avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather and refrain from taking shelter under trees during lightning activity.
