India, Aug. 4 -- The Delhi government's Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) Department has informed the National Green Tribunal (NGT) that a proposed flood protection wall along a vulnerable stretch of the Yamuna is expected to be completed by March 31, 2027, as part of efforts to strengthen the Capital's flood management system after the devastating inundation witnessed in 2023. According to an official, the department submitted a status report before the tribunal on Saturday, outlining the feasibility of constructing the protective wall between the Magazine Drain and the Old Railway Bridge. While the preliminary feasibility study has been completed, the project is currently in the design and drawing stage. The report noted that execution will begin after obtaining mandatory approvals from statutory agencies, including the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG). Also Read - Delhi to set up 'Arpan' centres at Metro stns for old clothes, recycling The department said the embankment along the proposed stretch had been overtopped during the July 2023 floods, when the Yamuna touched a record water level of 208.66 metres at the Delhi Railway Bridge, exceeding the existing bund height and resulting in widespread flooding. It recommended structural interventions to prevent a recurrence of such incidents. The report also made it clear that the long-pending proposal to transfer control of the ITO barrage to the Delhi government is unlikely to move forward. Haryana's Irrigation Department has informed Delhi that the barrage needs to remain under its control as it plays a crucial role in measuring water discharge shared among Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. Referring to the recommendations of the Joint Flood Management Committee constituted after the 2023 floods, the report said the panel had advised operating the ITO barrage with all gates open during flood situations in coordination with the Wazirabad and Okhla barrages. It also stressed the need for regular maintenance of the barrage's hydro mechanical systems while suggesting that the issue of transferring the barrage may be considered separately by the appropriate authorities. I&FC ruled out floodwater diversion reservoirs in Delhi, citing land constraints, silt deposition and high costs.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.