Dozens of flights disrupted as Delhi is lashed by heavy rain; IMD issues red alert

Over 182 flight departures were delayed, and a few have been cancelled due to the heavy rains lashing Delhi on Saturday morning.                         

The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a red alert for Saturday that predicts thunderstorms with rain.         

Parts of north, west, south, south east and central Delhi have been issued a red alert for heavy rainfall accompanied by lightning and thunderstorms.

The Delhi airport also issued an advisory in areas near the airport and has asked passengers to arrive in advance and consider alternative transport options.

“As per the Indian Meteorological Department's forecast, Delhi is currently experiencing inclement weather, including heavy rainfall, resulting in waterlogging near the airport. Passengers are advised to plan their travel accordingly and consider alternative modes of transport, such as the Delhi Metro, to avoid delays and ensure timely arrival at the airport,” the advisory of the Delhi Airport said.

In a post on X, Indigo made a statement that asked its passengers to plan their trips well in advance and prefer alternate routes amid the heavy rains. The statement said, “Due to today’s downpour, several roads across Delhi are currently blocked or experiencing slow movement. Please allow extra time, take an alternate route if possible, and check your flight status on our website or app before leaving for the airport. Our teams are working to keep things on track and support your journey. Thank you for your continued trust and patience.”

Air India also made a statement on social media that said, “Rain may impact flight operations to and from Delhi today. Please check your flight status here http://airindia.com/in/en/manage/flight-status.html before heading to the airport, and allow extra time for your journey to the airport due to possible slow-moving traffic.”  

The traffic police in Delhi have also issued an advisory amid the traffic congestion. According to the police, traffic congestion has been reported in several areas in the capital, including New Rohtak Road, Zakhira Railway Underpass, GTK Depot, Jahangirpuri, and Adarsh Nagar. 

In South East Delhi, first responders said they received a call regarding a portion of a building collapsing at Hari Nagar.     

The IMD has also issued a fresh warning of continued rainfall activity in Himachal Pradesh, and heavy rain is expected in many parts of the region.

An orange alert has been issued for August 11 and 1 in three districts in the state, and a yellow alert has been issued in the rest of the districts.