Delhi flood: Severe rain stops the capital and affects planes

The national capital came to a complete halt on Raksha Bandhan due to the torrential rain that fell on Saturday, which left major sections of Delhi-NCR severely flooded. On the other hand, flying operations were little affected.

The whole city of Delhi is under a red alert today, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). Throughout the day, thunderstorms and moderate to heavy rains are predicted, with the potential for severe periods across central and east Delhi.

The IGI Airport advised passengers to check with their respective airlines on flight delays. “As per the IMD forecast, Delhi is experiencing inclement weather conditions. However, operations are currently normal,” an advisory by the IGI Airport in Delhi stated.

In an alert on X, Indigo and SpiceJet warned travelers of the city’s traffic jams. Nonetheless, the rainfall contributed to a reduction in temperature, providing inhabitants with much-needed relief from the heat and humidity.

In a number of places, the rain began in the middle of the night and persisted until dawn, flooding several underpasses and soaking the streets. There was significant waterlogging at a number of important crossroads, including Pragati Maidan, Mathura Road, and Connaught Place.

The River Yamuna is getting closer to the danger level of 205.33 meters because to the constant rain, raising the possibility of flooding in low-lying regions. Lodi Road and Safdarjung received 80.7 mm and 78.7 mm of rainfall, respectively, while Pragati Maidan recorded more over 100 mm between 8.30 am on Friday and 8.30 am on Saturday.

Massive traffic bottlenecks were observed on important routes on Saturday because to Raksha Bandhan and the rainy weather expected for the day. Massive snarls were spotted on National Highway-44 and close to the Haryana border on Friday, providing a taste of this.

On Saturday, the IMD issued a warning about further rain in neighboring Himachal Pradesh. Three regions in the state are under an orange warning for moderate to heavy rainfall.
Rain-related accidents have claimed the lives of more than 200 persons in Himachal since June 20.