Heavy Rain Disrupts Delhi-NCR on Saturday Morning
New Delhi: A spell of heavy and continuous rain on Saturday morning brought large parts of Delhi-NCR to a grinding halt. Several key roads were submerged in water, traffic movement slowed to a crawl, and hundreds of flights at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport were delayed.
The downpour began early in the morning and continued for hours, overwhelming the city’s drainage systems. The impact was felt across residential and commercial areas, making it one of the most disruptive rain events of the season.
Waterlogging Across Key Locations
Visuals from across the capital showed severe waterlogging at:
- Panchkuian Marg
- Mathura Road
- Outside Bharat Mandapam
- Several arterial roads connecting South, Central, and East Delhi
Waterlogged stretches forced many vehicles to slow down or stall, leading to long traffic jams. Commuters heading to offices, railway stations, and the airport faced severe delays.
Flight Operations Affected at Delhi Airport
According to Flightradar data, the situation at Delhi Airport was particularly chaotic:
- 182 flight departures were delayed.
- At least 30 incoming flights were also delayed.
The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) issued a public advisory, stating:
“As per the India Meteorological Department’s forecast, Delhi is currently experiencing inclement weather, including heavy rainfall, resulting in waterlogging near the airport. Passengers are advised to plan their travel accordingly and consider alternative modes of transport, such as the Delhi Metro, to avoid delays and ensure timely arrival at the airport. For the latest flight updates, passengers are requested to contact their respective airlines directly.”
Airlines Issue Travel Advisories
Airlines quickly moved to alert passengers about the weather disruptions:
- IndiGo Airlines posted on social media: “Due to today’s downpour, several roads across Delhi are currently blocked or experiencing slow movement. Please allow extra time, take an alternate route if possible, and check your flight status on our website or app before leaving for the airport. Our teams are working to keep things on track and support your journey. Thank you for your continued trust and patience.”
- SpiceJet also issued an advisory: “Due to bad weather (heavy rain) in Delhi (DEL), all departures/arrivals and their consequential flights may get affected. Passengers are requested to keep a check on their flight status.”
These advisories urged passengers to leave for the airport well in advance, use the Delhi Metro wherever possible, and stay updated via airline apps or websites.
Weather Forecast from IMD
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a “Thunderstorm with Rain” warning for the day, cautioning residents about potential disruptions.
Key forecast details:
- Maximum Temperature: 33°C
- Minimum Temperature: 25°C
- Rain Outlook: Intermittent heavy showers throughout the day, accompanied by possible thunderstorms.
The IMD also advised motorists to avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding and pedestrians to be cautious while commuting in waterlogged zones.
Commuter Challenges and Alternate Transport
With road traffic badly affected, the Delhi Metro saw a significant increase in passengers. Many travelers opted for the metro to bypass flooded streets and reach the airport or railway stations. Ride-hailing services reported longer waiting times due to high demand and fewer available drivers.
In many areas, autos and taxis refused rides to waterlogged spots, leaving daily commuters stranded or forcing them to walk through knee-deep water.
Civic Response and Public Safety Measures
Municipal authorities deployed pumps to drain water in the worst-affected areas, but in several pockets, the volume of rain overwhelmed drainage systems. Traffic police were also on the ground managing diversions and helping stuck vehicles.
Emergency helpline numbers were circulated by Delhi Police, urging citizens to report stranded vehicles, fallen trees, or dangerous electrical hazards caused by waterlogging.
Impact on Daily Life
Beyond traffic and flights, the heavy rain also disrupted daily routines:
- Several schools delayed morning assemblies and classes due to student travel issues.
- Businesses reported lower footfall as customers avoided going out.
- Power outages were reported in a few rain-hit localities.
Conclusion – Caution Urged as Rains Continue
Saturday’s heavy rainfall has once again highlighted Delhi’s vulnerability to waterlogging and traffic paralysis during monsoon spells. With more rain expected in the coming hours, authorities have urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel, especially by road, and stay updated on transport and weather advisories.
For travelers, the key takeaway is clear: check your flight status before leaving for the airport, use the metro if possible, and keep extra travel time in hand.
FAQs – Delhi Rain Disruption
Q1: How many flights were delayed at Delhi Airport due to rain?
A: At least 182 departures and 30 arrivals faced delays.
Q2: Which areas in Delhi were most affected by waterlogging?
A: Panchkuian Marg, Mathura Road, and the area outside Bharat Mandapam saw severe waterlogging.
Q3: What is the weather forecast for Delhi today?
A: The IMD has issued a “Thunderstorm with Rain” warning with maximum temperatures of 33°C and minimum of 25°C.
Q4: What alternative transport options are available?
A: The Delhi Metro is the most reliable option during heavy rain to avoid traffic and waterlogged roads.
Q5: What should passengers do before traveling to the airport?
A: Check flight status directly with airlines, leave early, and consider using the metro to reach the airport on time.
Read More :-LIC Housing Finance Home Loan: Complete Guide 2025