Heavy Rain Causes Traffic Chaos in Delhi-NCR
Intense Rainfall Hits National Capital
The national capital is experiencing heavy rainfall in various areas, leading to significant waterlogging and traffic congestion. Since the arrival of the monsoon on June 29, Delhi has recorded rainfall approximately eight percent above the normal levels. Residents of Delhi-NCR faced another bout of rain on Wednesday morning, with the meteorological department predicting light to moderate rainfall throughout the week. A red alert for heavy rain has been issued for northeastern and southeastern parts of Delhi by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
Weather Refreshes Amidst Morning Showers
Following hours of torrential rain on Tuesday, the latest downpour has resulted in water accumulation across several regions of the national capital. The vicinity near Indira Gandhi International Airport was also affected by the heavy rain; however, there have been no reports of disruptions to flight operations. Traffic jams were reported in various areas, including South Delhi, ITO, and the Mahrauli-Gurgaon road.
Severe Traffic Congestion on Roads
The IMD's latest advisory indicates the likelihood of moderate to heavy rainfall across Delhi and NCR, accompanied by light thunder and winds reaching speeds of 30-40 km/h. Some regions in Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh are also expected to experience light to moderate rain throughout the day.
Flooding Concerns Due to Continuous Rain
The weather department has warned that persistent rainfall could lead to water accumulation on roads, flooding in low-lying areas, and the closure of underpasses. There is also a caution regarding potential minor damage to makeshift homes and huts. The flow of water from the Hathnikund Barrage in Haryana has surpassed 50,000 cusecs for the first time this monsoon, raising concerns for Delhi as it may increase the water level of the Yamuna River. Prior to today's heavy rainfall, Delhi had recorded 136.3 mm of rain, while the city typically sees around 209.7 mm in July.
Traffic Disruptions Due to Rain and Pilgrimage
Heavy rainfall and the influx of pilgrims have led to severe traffic disruptions in the national capital on Tuesday, leaving many travelers stranded for hours. Major roads were submerged due to the morning downpour, and several key routes were blocked by pedestrians participating in the pilgrimage. Recent asphalt layers on some roads were washed away by the rain, creating potholes and further slowing down traffic. Significant congestion was reported on ITO, Old Rohtak Road, the Delhi-Jaipur National Highway (NH-8), Mahrauli-Badarpur Road, Mahrauli-Gurgaon Road, Peeragarhi to ISBT, Madhuban Chowk, Delhi-Ghaziabad, and NH-9.
Travelers Stuck for Hours
The Mahrauli-Badarpur route was particularly affected, with traffic disruptions persisting until the afternoon. Many pilgrims were seen walking along already waterlogged roads. Along the Nangloi to Najafgarh route and near Anand Vihar, numerous pilgrimage camps were set up along the roadside, completely halting traffic. To facilitate the pilgrims, vehicle routes were altered in various parts of the city; however, the lack of real-time information and the absence of traffic police left drivers confused and helpless. One traveler recounted, 'I left Delhi for Gurgaon at 8 AM and was stuck in traffic near the airport for hours. It was a massive jam. I only managed to cover 18 kilometers in two hours.' Another user on social media platform 'X' mentioned, 'It took me two hours to travel 30 kilometers on the Gurgaon-Delhi route.'