The Taj Mahal is facing the flood water in Uttar Pradesh, India.

The Taj Mahal is facing the flood water in Uttar Pradesh, India on Tuesday, September 14, 2010, this monument is on the bank of river Yamuna. Heavy rain in the upper catchment areas and breach of embankments is creating a challenge for authorities to protect this monument of peace and love and one of the 7th of the world wonderfull heritage.

NewKerala.com reported that, as the Yamuna’s water level began receding in Delhi, the situation in Mathura and Agra became alarming Monday as the river began flooding the low-lying areas, leading to evacuation of the residents.

Agra District Magistrate Amrit Abhijat said: “The water level is rising continuously. People should stop moving around the banks and should not be using boats. Swimmers can also wait as the current is fast.”

He said 41 posts along the banks would keep a round the clock vigil.

Arrangements for temporary stay of the flood victims had been made at half a dozen places.

Announcements were being made on the loudspeakers in the areas that were likely to be flooded, requesting people to move out.

District officials said the dozen odd drains opening into the river would start back-flowing and this could pose a serious health hazard. A total of 35 pumpsets had therefore been installed and medical teams posted to keep control on the situation, they said.

Abhijat told media persons that the river level could go up to 497.8 feet

He said a dozen areas along the river in the city facing a flood threat had been identified and in the rural areas, more than 20 villages could be affected.

Stocks from warehouses of wholesalers and transport companies on the river bank road were being shifted as a panic gripped the people in Taj city who were fearing a repeat of 1978 flood.

“And with reports of more discharge from Haryana Monday, we do not see an early respite,” said Nandan Shrotriya, a priest in a temple along the river.

Courtesy: AllVoices