The old Yamuna bridge, also known as Lohe-Ka-Pul, has been closed for traffic due to the Yamuna river crossing the danger mark. This bridge, called “bridge number 249,” is one of the longest and oldest bridges in India. It was built between 1863 and 1866 and opened for public use in 1867. The bridge is a double-decked steel truss bridge that connects Delhi to Shadra in the eastern part of the city.
In the 19th century, the bridge was the final link connecting Kolkata and Delhi by railways. Initially, it had a single line but was later converted to a double line. The Delhi Traffic Police announced the closure of the iron bridge in Gandhi Nagar due to dangerous water levels in the Yamuna river.
The water level in the Yamuna river has reached 206.24 meters, which is above the danger mark of 205.33 meters. The Central Water Commission recorded this level, prompting Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal to assure that his government is prepared for any potential flood-like situations. If the water level rises to 206 meters, evacuation plans will be initiated for the 41,000 people living near the riverbank. In 1978, the water level at the old bridge reached 207 meters.
Officials also mentioned previous instances where high water levels did not result in flooding. In 2013, 8 lakh Cusec of water was released from the Hathni Kund Barrage, causing the Yamuna River level to reach 207.32 mm, but no flood occurred. Similarly, in 2019, despite a water level of 206.6 mm, there was no flood.
Delhi remains on high alert as authorities closely monitor the water levels in the Yamuna river. Commuters are advised to plan their journeys accordingly due to the closure of the old Yamuna bridge.
