India, Sept. 6 -- As the Yamuna's water level rose over the past few days, forcing evacuations in several areas along the river, emergency response teams worked round the clock to rescue stranded people and animals.

Members of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) said their operations had been relentless. "We do not have a defined shift. As and when an emergency occurs, we are sent to the spot," said Sunil Kumar, a member of an NDRF team deployed in the city.

Long hours, tough conditions

For many responders, the work extended late into the night. "When we are sent to a spot, we have to find food and water on our own and sleep nearby in case an emergency arises," said 37-year-old...