Severe waterlogging, traffic chaos in Delhi as heavy rains lash national capital

Heavy rains battered parts of Delhi and the National Capital Region on Wednesday morning, leaving several roads waterlogged and disrupting vehicular movement. 

The weather department has issued a red and orange alert for several regions and also predicted moderate to heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms with gusty winds reaching up to 30-40 kmph. 

Pragati Maidan recorded 16.6 mm of rainfall between 5.30 am and 8.30 am while Pusa received 10 mm of rainfall, Janakpuri 9.5 mm, and Najafgarh 2 mm. Safdarjung, the primary weather station of the city, recorded 5.6 mm of rainfall.

Several low-lying areas reported knee-deep water.

Traffic disruptions due to waterlogging were reported from several areas including South Delhi, South East Delhi, North Delhi, ITO, South Extension, NH-8, Mehrauli-Gurgaon Road, Nehru Place, East of Kailash and Colony Road.

IMD has issued a red alert for South Delhi and North East Delhi. Residents have been advised to stay indoors, avoid travel, follow traffic updates, stay away from electric poles and wires, and avoid sheltering under trees.

The Delhi International Airport also issued an advisory to passengers, though flight operations remain normal as of now.

“Our on-ground teams are working diligently with all stakeholders to ensure your journey remains hassle-free. For the latest flight information, passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines,” said the advisory.

The showers, however, brought some relief to people discomforted by the humid conditions.