Yamuna recedes in Agra

The Yamuna began receding Sunday morning, after almost touching the low flood level of 495 feet, officials said.

Water, however, entered around 30 villages in Bah area.

The Tajewala barrage discharged 41,797 cusecs, Okhla 46,140 cusecs and Gokul barrage in Mathura district 82,000 cusecs, in addition to discharge from the Hindon barrage, the district flood control unit said.

"The river is flowing to its brim all the way from Delhi to Agra, but the barrages are proving helpful in controlling unexpected flooding. The whole system is well managed and regulated, thanks to better communication and coordination," said noted environmentalist Shravan Kumar Singh.

Meanwhile, water level in the Chambal river stabilised at 120 metres in the past two days.

Heavy showers Saturday and a forecast of more rains in the next two days has added to the pressure. Development functionaries along the river banks in Agra have been alerted to maintain vigil and keep "shifting arrangements ready".

Officials said there were indications that the annual average rainfall of 650 mm would be exceeded as the withdrawal date of the monsoon is still 60 days away.