Delhi-NCR Battered by Heavy Rains: Red Alert Issued

Severe Weather Disrupts Normal Life

Delhi and its adjoining regions experienced heavy rainfall on Wednesday evening, leading to significant waterlogging and traffic disruptions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Delhi-NCR, advising residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. The incessant downpour caused chaos across the city, with key roads and low-lying areas submerged in water.

Impact on Daily Life

The heavy rainfall has had a severe impact on daily life in the National Capital Region. Major roads such as the Delhi-Noida Expressway, Mathura Road, and several locations like ITO, AIIMS, and Kashmere Gate witnessed long traffic jams, stranding commuters for hours. The Delhi government responded by ordering the closure of all schools on Thursday to ensure the safety of students.

The IMD reported that several weather stations recorded over 100mm of rainfall overnight. Mayur Vihar in East Delhi recorded 147.5mm, close to a cloudburst, while other areas like Safdarjung and Najafgarh also saw significant rainfall.

Traffic and Air Travel Disruptions

The heavy rainfall disrupted traffic across the city, with the Delhi Traffic Police issuing advisories to avoid certain waterlogged roads. The carriageway from Moolchand towards Chirag Delhi and other major routes were severely affected. The downpour also impacted air travel, with at least ten flights being diverted from Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport to Jaipur and Lucknow due to adverse weather conditions.

Tragic Incidents and Emergency Response

The severe weather led to several tragic incidents. In Ghazipur, a woman and her three-year-old son drowned after slipping into a waterlogged drain. In another incident, a 28-year-old man died of electrocution in Mithapur. Additionally, a house collapsed in North Delhi's Sabzi Mandi area, injuring one person, while a wall collapse in Vasant Kunj injured another.

Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena and Delhi Minister Atishi have directed government agencies to address waterlogging and ensure the safety of residents. The National Flash Flood Guidance Bulletin included Delhi in its list of 'areas of concern,' highlighting the need for vigilance.

Weather Forecast and Safety Measures

The IMD has predicted continued rainfall in Delhi-NCR, with the rainy weather expected to persist until August 5. The department has advised residents to be cautious of slippery roads, low visibility, and localized waterlogging in low-lying areas. The Delhi government and Municipal Corporation are working to mitigate the impact of the heavy rainfall and ensure minimal inconvenience to the public.

As Delhi and its surrounding regions brace for more rain, residents are urged to stay alert and follow safety advisories issued by authorities.