Heavy Rainfall Grapples Delhi-NCR, Worst June Deluge Since 1936

The national capital region of Delhi-NCR grappled with a deluge following heavy rainfall that commenced on Thursday, exacerbating widespread waterlogging and severe traffic congestion during Friday morning’s rush hour.

According to the Meteorological Department, Delhi received a staggering 228 mm of rainfall from 8:30 AM Thursday to 8:30 AM Friday, marking the highest 24-hour rainfall in June since 1936, when records showed 235.5 mm of precipitation.

Typically, Delhi averages 80.6 mm of rainfall in June, making this recent downpour unusually intense.

While offering a brief respite from scorching temperatures experienced over the past months, with Friday’s minimum temperature recorded at 24.7 degrees Celsius 3.2 degrees below normal the heavy rains have underscored glaring infrastructure deficiencies in the city.

Despite assurances earlier this month from Delhi Mayor Shelly Oberoi regarding the city’s preparedness for the monsoon season, the first substantial rains have already inundated several parts of the capital, severely affecting daily life.

Promises of clean storm drains and a hassle-free monsoon now seem distant as major intersections such as ITO and Hanuman Temple leading to Mandi House remain submerged under two to three feet of water, causing extensive traffic snarls.

Road closures on prominent thoroughfares like Ashoka Road, Feroz Shah Road, and disruptions in Connaught Place have further compounded commuter woes.

In Noida, despite inspections by Noida Authority officials, severe waterlogging affected areas including Mahamaya Flyover and sectors 62, 15, and 16.

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