Agra: The Yamuna River is swelling rapidly in Agra after heavy rainfall in Delhi and Haryana and the release of water from the Hathinikund Barrage, raising concerns of flooding near the Taj Mahal. For the first time in 45 years, Yamuna’s waters have reached the rear walls of the monument, reviving memories of the devastating 1978 floods.
The river level is nearing 495.5 feet, close to the 2023 flood mark when waters had lashed the Taj Mahal’s boundary walls. The high flood level (HFL) is 508 feet, and officials warn that the water level may rise further.
In response, the CISF has shifted its camp away from the riverfront and sealed off flood-affected zones. The district administration has issued an alert in 40 nearby villages, instructing residents to avoid riverbanks as floodwaters seep into farmlands. At the pilgrimage town of Bateshwar, 80 km downstream, river ghats have submerged, and bathing has been prohibited.
Locals recall the 1978 floods, when Yamuna waters touched the gates of the Taj Mahal and submerged several temples. However, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has reassured that the Taj remains safe, as it was built on an elevated plinth designed to withstand such conditions. Authorities continue to closely monitor the situation.
