LG Saxena directs officers to remain on alert amid heavy downpour in Delhi
Jul 31, 2024
New Delhi [India], July 31 : Lieutenant Governor of Delhi, Vinai Kumar Saxena, has cautioned all officers to remain alert in light of the ongoing heavy downpour in the national capital.
"Have cautioned all officers to remain alert in light of the ongoing heavy downpour in Delhi. Apart from ensuring minimum inconvenience to people in general, they are advised to specifically address issues at sites prone to waterlogging, including coaching centres," Saxena posted on X.
Rain lashed several parts of Delhi and its adjoining National Capital Region (NCR) on Wednesday evening, providing relief from the humid weather. However, the downpour has resulted in traffic congestion throughout the city.
Due to the bad weather, Delhi witnessed 10 flight diversions reported between 7.30 pm and 8pm, according to airport sources.
Meanwhile, Air India issued an advisory warning that flights to and from Delhi may be affected due to the bad weather this evening. "Guests are advised to start early for the airport, as slow traffic and waterlogging may delay movement. Please check your flight status before heading to the airport," Air India posted on X.
Traffic is affected on the Okhla Underpass in both carriageways from Crown Plaza towards Kalindi Kunj and vice versa due to water logging, said the traffic police.
"Traffic is affected on the Okhla Underpass in both carriageways from Crown Plaza towards Kalindi Kunj and vice versa due to water logging. Barricades have been installed at the entrance for the safety of the general public. Kindly plan your journey and use the alternative routes," Delhi Traffic Police posted on X.
Traffic is also affected on Mathura Road in the carriageway from Apollo Hospital towards Neela Gumbad due to heavy water logging in the Ashram Chowk underpass. Commuters are advised to avoid the stretch, said the police.
A commuter, Sonu, said, "I am going to Safdarjung. Even if there is a little rain everything gets waterlogged. It becomes difficult to commute."
"We are facing trouble. I have lost my phone in the water," another commuter in the national capital said.
Salwan Station Mayur Vihar in East Delhi observed 119.0 mm rainfall from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM today, whereas station NCMRWF, Noida Sector 62 in Gautam Buddha Nagar, UP, observed 118.5 mm of rainfall.
Severe waterlogging was witnessed near AIIMS after incessant rainfall in the national capital.
Traffic jams were also witnessed in the ITO area of Delhi after rain lashed the city.
The IMD has cautioned that the showers are likely to cause slippery roads, low visibility, traffic disruptions, and localised waterlogging in low-lying areas.
Delhi's average maximum temperature in July was 35.8°C, slightly above the long-period average (LPA). However, high humidity levels--over 50% on most days in July--led to a Heat Index (HI) or 'real feel' of 45.8°C, making it feel significantly warmer than the recorded maximum temperature, according to the IMD.
On Tuesday, Delhi recorded its highest maximum temperature for the month this year, with the mercury settling at 39.3 degrees Celsius, five notches above the season's normal.
According to the IMD, intermittent showers are likely in Delhi till August 5.
