Delhi found itself submerged under water as heavy rains pounded the capital, leading to severe waterlogging, traffic snarls, and a tragic loss of life.
With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasting more downpour, the city braces for further disruption.
The Torrential Downpour
On Thursday, Delhi woke up to scenes of chaos following a night of relentless rainfall. The IMD reported extraordinary figures with the Salwan station in Mayur Vihar recording 147.5 mm of rainfall within less than 24 hours.
Other areas were not far behind, with the Najafgarh station receiving 113 mm, and Lodhi Road, Delhi University, and Safdarjung observatories recording rainfall exceeding 100 mm.
Wading Through Water-Logged Streets
The deluge transformed roads into rivers, severely impacting mobility. The Delhi Police took to social media advising commuters to avoid the Mundka area, notorious for its waterlogging.
The advisory highlighted the traffic congestion on Rohtak Road, mainly due to water accumulation and potholes, urging the public to seek alternate routes.
Community Struggles
The consequences of the downpour extended beyond traffic disruptions. The Delhi Traffic Police reported over 50 complaints of waterlogging across the city.
Tragically, the hazardous conditions contributed to the deaths of a young woman and her child in Ghazipur, who slipped into a drain near Khoda Colony.
Education Comes to a Halt
Acknowledging the severity of the situation, Delhi’s Education Minister declared an emergency closure of all schools to ensure the safety of students.
The Road Ahead
As the city reels from the impact of the torrential rains, the forecast suggests no immediate respite. The IMD warns of continuous downpour, further exacerbating the city’s plight.
Authorities are scrambling to address the crisis, focusing on drainage and emergency responses to mitigate the effects of the floods.
This incident shines a spotlight on the urgent need for improved urban planning and infrastructure to withstand the challenges posed by such extreme weather events.
The days ahead will be crucial for Delhi as it navigates these turbulent waters, striving to restore normalcy.
