Delhi Rain Creates Chaos on Roads and Highways Widespread Waterlogging Reported
Delhi is grappling with significant disruptions on its roads and highways this Wednesday due to relentless heavy rainfall and subsequent widespread waterlogging. Commuters across the National Capital Region, including Noida and Ghaziabad, are facing severe traffic snarls and extended travel times. Visuals from various locations depict vehicles navigating through submerged streets, with some areas reporting knee-deep water, forcing drivers to use headlights even in daylight. An orange alert has been issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), forecasting moderate rain and thunderstorms, exacerbating the already challenging road conditions.
The morning downpour has particularly impacted several key arterial routes and underpasses. Reports confirm major waterlogging on the road beneath the Mahamaya flyover and near Ambedkar Park, leading to considerable bottlenecks. Similar issues plagued South Delhi, South East Delhi, Central Delhi, National Highway 8, the Delhi-Jaipur stretch, ITO, and areas around AIIMS on Tuesday, indicating a recurring problem with the city’s drainage system during the monsoon season. Commuters faced hours-long delays, forcing many to alter their daily plans.
The continuous rainfall, while bringing relief from heat and pollution, has exposed the vulnerabilities of Delhi’s urban infrastructure. Despite preparations, various agencies responsible for road maintenance and drainage struggle to cope with the intensity and duration of the showers. The cumulative monsoon rainfall for Delhi since June 29 is already eight percent above the seasonal average, with 234.6 mm recorded so far against a normal of 217.5 mm. Specific weather stations like Ridge and Lodhi Road also reported significant rainfall amounts on Tuesday, adding to the saturation of the ground and overwhelming the drainage networks.
The Delhi Airport has also issued an advisory to passengers regarding “inclement weather conditions,” though flight operations remain normal. The advisory emphasizes that ground teams are diligently working to ensure smooth journeys. However, the conditions on roads leading to the airport could still affect travel times for passengers, leading to calls for better management of access routes during heavy rain.
With more rainfall anticipated over the coming days, authorities urge residents to stay informed through official traffic and weather advisories. Commuters are strongly advised to avoid waterlogged routes, particularly underpasses, and exercise extreme caution while driving to ensure safety on the inundated roads and highways.
