Schools in Noida to Stay Shut Tomorrow as Yamuna Crosses Danger Mark
The administration of Gautam Buddh Nagar has issued an order for the closure of all schools in Noida and Greater Noida on Friday. This decision comes as a precautionary measure due to the Yamuna River crossing the danger mark and the possibility of further rain. The Yamuna River surpassed the danger mark of 200.60 meters downstream of Okhla Barrage around 11:45 am on Thursday, according to the Irrigation Department.
District Magistrate Manish Kumar Verma personally inspected the low-lying areas submerged in water along the river. Traveling on an inflated boat, he observed the situation and subsequently ordered the closure of all schools for July 14. Dharmveer Singh, the District Inspector of Schools, confirmed the closure and stated, "Due to the high water level in the Yamuna River caused by heavy rains and the likelihood of additional rainfall, the district magistrate has instructed the closure of all schools, irrespective of the education boards they belong to."
The Irrigation Department also issued a statement, highlighting that the Yamuna River has exceeded the danger mark of 200.60 meters, with the possibility of the water level rising further. The Okhla Barrage is currently discharging water at a rate higher than its intended capacity, releasing 3,48,765 cubic feet per second.
In response to the situation, senior administration and police officials conducted inspections of the flooded low-lying areas along the Yamuna River in Noida and Greater Noida. Firefighters, along with the National Disaster Response Force and the State Disaster Response Force, assisted in evacuating stranded animals.
District Magistrate Verma, after assessing the situation, instructed the NDRF, SDRF, and the police department to closely monitor the evolving conditions. The official statement mentioned, "NDRF and SDRF teams are rescuing people and cattle trapped in flood-affected villages, relocating them to safe areas. The DM assessed the situation at various locations, including Dostpur Mangrauli, Nagla Nagli, Shakpur, Nangli Wajidpur, and inspected the shelter homes for the rescued individuals. He emphasized the need for providing basic facilities like shelter, food, and drinking water to those brought to these shelters."
The statement further added, "The DM alerted villagers residing along the banks of the Yamuna River to remain vigilant as the water level is expected to rise in the next few hours. It is advised that all villagers stay alert and relocate to safe areas."