The Delhi government has approved projects worth ₹622 crore to strengthen flood control and drainage infrastructure, including a ₹99-crore concrete wall along a vulnerable stretch of the Yamuna River.
The 4.7-km reinforced cement concrete (RCC) wall will run between the Magazine Road drain and the Old Railway Bridge, aiming to prevent floodwaters from entering low-lying areas during periods of rising water levels.
The decision was taken at the 40th meeting of the Flood Control Board, chaired by Irrigation and Flood Control Minister Parvesh Verma at the Delhi Secretariat.
The plan follows severe flooding in recent years. In July 2023, the Yamuna reached 208.66 metres at the Old Railway Bridge, surpassing the danger mark of 205.33 metres.
The river crossed the danger level again in 2025, prompting evacuations. The government has not announced a completion date for the wall.
The board also gave in-principle approval to three biomining projects worth ₹260 crore to scientifically process and dispose of silt removed from drains, including the Najafgarh drain.
Officials said dumped silt often washes back into drains during rainfall, reducing their capacity.
Plans to develop drain banks with walkways, green belts, plantations, lighting and fencing were also discussed.
However, environmental activists criticised the proposed wall. Bhim Singh Rawat of SANDRP called it a “half-baked measure” and urged authorities to complete river surveys before construction.
Yamuna Satyagraha convener Diwan Singh warned that walls and other structures could restrict the river’s natural flow. Both stressed the need to address encroachments and declining flood-carrying capacity.
Verma directed officials to meet deadlines and monitor progress regularly.
