Delhi govt is planning to build a 4.7-km reinforced concrete wall along Yamuna river
A Central Water Commission 2025 study on Delhi’s 2023 floods recommends suitable flood protection at vulnerable locations, including Nili Chhatri, but does not specifically recommend the proposed 4.7-km concrete-reinforced wall.
Pointing out that while such experiments work in Europe where rivers have consistent natural or environmental flow round the year, environmentalist Diwan Singh said the intervention in a largely monsoon-fed and restricted river like Yamuna could undermine the natural functioning. The changing relationship between upstream discharge and water levels in Delhi warrants an independent investigation into the river’s carrying capacity and the cumulative impact of existing infrastructure,” said Bhim Singh Rawat, associate coordinator of South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People (SANDRP). The concerns are significant given the existing network of bridges, barrages, embankments and riverside roads. Its modelling also found that replacing certain existing lateral embankments with structures raised on piers could reduce water levels at some locations. “Construction of the wall should be reconsidered until the ongoing topographic and bathymetric surveys are completed. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Delhi | Silver Rate in Delhi | Bank Holidays in Delhi | Public Holidays in Delhi | Delhi AQI | Weather in Delhi | Petrol Price in Delhi | Diesel Price in Delhi | CNG Price in Delhi | LPG Price in Delhi
Experts say these patterns warrant investigation into changes in the river’s carrying capacity, floodplain encroachment, riverbed conditions and the cumulative impact of infrastructure.