Exclusive: Yamuna Flood, Makeshift Camps, And Reported Negligence Of Delhi Govt
As the water level of the Yamuna River rose, over 300 families living in Jhuggis on the banks of the Yamuna near Delhi ITO have left their homes and shifted to the roadside, as their jhuggis were submerged and their belongings were drowned. Families, along with children and the elderly, must make their own arrangements to cope with the flood situation and the relentless heavy monsoon rains in the capital.
Children flocking to the roads, a group of women chatting, and men and women taking a bath in the open are common sights in the poorly built, makeshift structures. The makeshift shelters are constructed using tarpaulin sheets, which are insufficient to prevent rainwater from wetting their belongings and forcing them to spend sleepless nights. Mosquito bites, as well as fear of snakes and other harmful insects, have added further misery to their lives. With no electricity, no drinking water, and the absence of toilet facilities, these over 300 families are counting the days and hours until the Yamuna water recedes so that they can return to their homes.
Read also: Judge Who Denied Bail To Umar Khalid Retires; Faces ‘Post-Retirement Job’ Criticism
Every slowing car in front of them gives them a ray of hope that somebody must have come for help. Some people are doing charity work and distributing food, but that food remains insufficient, as over 1,500-1,600 people live in those makeshift shelters.
Upon asking them about the facilities provided by the government, people complained that nobody had come to inquire about their situation. However, at some distance from these makeshift settlements, some government-organised temporary settlements have been established, where people are receiving food, water, a solar light bulb, moving toilets, and medical facilities.
The Delhi Civil Defence team, working under the DM of the area, is helping out the people living in these camps and providing them with facilities. Upon asking the head of the Civil Defence team, he mentioned that they are providing facilities to nearly 1100 people and working 24 hours a day for them.
However, the ground report contradicts the claims made by the head of the Civil Defence team. On the ground, one can see that fewer than 30 camps have been installed with an infrequent and irregular supply of food. However, water, medical facilities, and toilet arrangements are available, but the lack of sufficient food and an insufficient number of camps have forced people to make their own arrangements.
Read also: Fake Doctors On The Rise In India: Here’s How To Verify A Doctor’s Credential
“This is not the first time that the water level of the Yamuna River has increased; this has happened every year, but previous governments have made arrangements for all of us and taken care of everything. This government works only for the rich and not for the poor and labourers”, complained a man affected by the flood water.
