Why is Delhi-NCR Experiencing Heavy Rain and Waterlogging?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Delhi-NCR experienced heavy rainfall leading to severe waterlogging.
- Major roads and flight operations have been disrupted.
- The IMD issued a red alert for continued rain.
- Authorities recommend avoiding unnecessary travel.
- Yamuna River levels are nearing danger marks, raising flooding concerns.
New Delhi, Aug 9 (NationPress) The National Capital Region, including Delhi, experienced a deluge on Saturday, leading to considerable waterlogging across various districts, including Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram. This severe weather event has caused significant traffic disruptions and flight delays.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for the area, advising locals to prepare for ongoing rainfall and associated disruptions.
Areas such as Shastri Bhawan, RK Puram, Moti Bagh, and Kidwai Nagar faced heavy water accumulation, resulting in traffic jams.
Major roads such as Connaught Place, Mathura Road, and the vicinity of Bharat Mandapam’s Gate No. 7 have been severely affected, hampering the movement of commuters.
Flight operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport have also been impacted due to the heavy rain. Indigo Airlines, a leading airline operating from this hub, communicated through social media that passengers should anticipate delays and check their flight status online before heading to the airport.
“In light of today’s rain, numerous roads across Delhi are currently blocked or moving slowly. We advise you to allow extra travel time, consider alternate routes, and confirm your flight status via our website or app before departing for the airport,” the airline advised on their advisory shared on X.
Despite the disturbances, the rain provided some respite from the ongoing humidity, with air quality improving to a moderate AQI of 116, as recorded on the previous day. The IMD has predicted a high of 33 degrees Celsius and a low of 25 degrees Celsius for the day.
Furthermore, the Yamuna River at the Old Railway Bridge reached a seasonal peak of 205.15 meters early Friday, nearing the danger mark of 205.33 meters, raising concerns about potential flooding in vulnerable areas.
Authorities have urged citizens to exercise caution, limit unnecessary travel, and stay informed about weather updates while teams work to alleviate waterlogging and manage traffic flow.