Rising water levels in the Yamuna have left several villages in Karnal district struggling with floods. Crops in many fields are under water, leaving farmers worried about heavy losses. Roads connecting villages and linking Haryana with Uttar Pradesh are submerged, cutting off transport and leaving communities isolated.
The situation worsened on Monday morning after 3.29 lakh cusecs of water was released from the Hathnikund barrage in Yamunanagar. By afternoon, the water had reached Karnal, and by late night it had entered low-lying fields, spread into residential areas, and damaged road links. Residents recalled the floods of 2023, which had destroyed fields and caused months of hardship.
“We are scared because this reminds us of the 2023 floods. At that time our fields were completely destroyed and recovery took months,” said Rajinder, a villager. Yashpal, another resident, said the water had returned again this year, and people fear the same suffering.
Deputy Commissioner Uttam Singh reviewed the situation on Monday and ordered officials to stay alert. He directed that no official should leave station without prior approval. The Irrigation Department confirmed that round-the-clock monitoring was underway by field staff, including Junior Engineers, SDOs and XENs, under the supervision of the Superintending Engineer.
An official alert has been issued in vulnerable areas. Meanwhile, villagers are keeping a close watch on the rising Yamuna, hoping the water will recede soon.