Hathini Kund: Water Release- Yamuna Overflow  : Threat to Delhi  & Earthquake Mock Drill 1 August 2025

This article examines the role of Hathini Kund Barrage in Yamuna water overflow situations affecting Delhi, particularly during the monsoon season. It discusses the consequences of water release from Hathini Kund, combined with heavy rainfall and other upstream factors, contributing to the inundation of low-lying areas of Delhi. The article also delivered in advance due to  recent earthquake activity in the Delhi NCR region & due to flood management or disaster preparedness, and the urgent need for coordinated government and NGO intervention. Drawing upon last year’s water release incidents and projected earthquake mock drills, the article issues an appeal from Prakriti Darshan for sustainable, timely alternatives to prevent disasters.

Introduction to Hathini Kund

Hathini Kund “Barrage” is located in Yamunanagar district of Haryana state . This Barrage  built in 1999 on the Yamuna River. Its primary function is to regulate the river’s flow for irrigation, drinking water, and flood control. However, during intense monsoon rains, the barrage becomes a floodgate, releasing massive volumes of water downstream. This action, though necessary, often overwhelms the Yamuna floodplains of Delhi, leading to waterlogging, displacement, and damage to life and property.

The 2024 Water Release From Hathini Kund: What Happened?

In July 2024, over 3.5 lakh cusecs of water were released from Hathini Kund in response to torrential rains in the Shivalik Hills and upper Yamuna basin. This influx led to a dramatic rise in Yamuna water levels, breaching the danger mark of 205.33 meters at Old Railway Bridge in Delhi. Multiple areas including Yamuna Bazar, Civil Lines, ISBT, and low-lying settlements were submerged. Thousands were evacuated as authorities scrambled for relief and rescue operations.

Delhi Yamuna Overflow: Causes & Consequences

1. Heavy Rainfall: Intense monsoon downpours in Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Haryana increase Yamuna’s volume.
2. Water Release from Hathini Kund: Emergency release to prevent structural pressure leads to flooding downstream.
3. Inadequate Drainage Infrastructure: Delhi’s urban setup lacks natural floodplains and drains are often clogged.
4. Encroachment on Riverbanks: Illegal settlements obstruct natural flow and increase damage during overflows.
5. Other Barrages: Wazirabad and Okhla Barrages also contribute to water retention or release, compounding the crisis.

Impact on Delhi Residents

• Inundation of residential areas and slums
• Disruption in metro and railway services
• Waterborne disease outbreaks
• Power outages and drinking water shortage
• Financial losses for street vendors and local businesses

Delhi NCR Earthquake Activity: Last 30 Days Overview

In the past 30 days, the Delhi NCR region has experienced 4 mild tremors, ranging from 2.5 to 4.3 on the Richter scale. These tremors highlight the growing vulnerability of the region to seismic activity.

Upcoming Earthquake Mock Drill: A full-scale mock drill is scheduled on 1 August 2025 in 55 identified location of  Delhi NCR in coordination with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).

When Flood and Earthquake Strike Together

A twin calamity of earthquake and flood can cause:

• Collapse of buildings weakened by waterlogging
• Failure of rescue and evacuation routes
• Panic and misinformation among citizens

Disaster Management Preparation: Way Forward

• Real-time early warning systems
• Strengthening of embankments and flood zones
• Earthquake-resistant shelters in flood-prone zones
• Coordination between IMD, NDMA, CWC, NDRF, SDRF, and NGOs
• Identification of vulnerable zones through GIS and satellite monitoring

NGOs & Policy Role

• The Delhi Government and Central Government must identify, register, and fund capable NGOs in advance
• Promote community-based disaster response training
• Introduce policy reforms for mandatory NGO-government collaboration in emergencies
• Incentivize flood ad earthquake volunteer programs  or disaster management training programmes or mock drill may be conducted through schools and local bodies in collaboration with Local NGOs.

Appeal from Prakriti Darshan

We appeal to the Government of India, Delhi Government, Yamuna Basin authorities, and concerned citizens to:

• Construct alternative water diversion systems
• Dredge Yamuna riverbeds to increase carrying capacity
• Implement green embankments and plantation drives
• Shift settlements from high-risk flood zones

Join Prakriti Darshan’s Campaign to stay informed and act early. Timely updates and alerts can save lives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Hathini Kund?

Ans. It’s a barrage on Yamuna River in Haryana that regulates water flow.

2. Why does Delhi flood when water is released from Hathini Kund?

Ans. Delhi lies downstream; sudden large water release raises Yamuna’s level beyond safe limits.

3. How much water was released in July 2024?

Ans. Over 3.5 lakh cusecs of water.

4. What are the flood danger levels in Yamuna at Old Delhi ?

Ans. Yamuna River Danger mark is 205.33 meters at Old Railway Bridge in Delhi.

5. What was the highest Yamuna level in 2024?

Ans. Approximately 206.6 meters, causing red alerts.

6. Can floods be prevented in Delhi?

Ans. Yes, with better planning, early warnings, and infrastructure upgrades.

7. Is Delhi prone to earthquakes?

Ans. Yes, it’s in seismic zone IV with moderate to high risk.

8. What should I do during an earthquake-flood combo disaster?

Ans. Head to elevated, open grounds; follow govt alerts and NDRF advisories.

9. Who manages disaster response in Delhi?

Ans. NDMA, NDRF, Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA), and local NGOs.

10. How can I receive Prakriti Darshan updates?

Ans. Visit www.prakritidarshan.com and subscribe to the newsletter.

Summary

Hathini Kund remains a crucial yet potentially dangerous factor for Delhi’s flood safety during monsoon. The combination of excessive rainfall, upstream releases, and unplanned urban expansion worsens the situation. The recent seismic activity adds another layer of risk. Government-NGO synergy and proactive citizen engagement are vital to tackle these challenges.

Conclusion

Natural disasters like floods and earthquakes cannot be prevented but can be effectively managed with preparation. It is imperative for Delhi and neighboring states to invest in climate-resilient infrastructure, emergency response protocols, and real-time monitoring. With collective action and timely decisions, lives can be saved.

References

1. Central Water Commission (CWC)
2. Indian Meteorological Department (IMD)
3. National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
4. Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA)
5. News Sources: The Hindu, Times of India, Indian Express, Hindustan Times (July 2024 reports)
6. Prakriti Darshan  www.prakritidarshan.com

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