Delhi Struggles with Waterlogging After First Monsoon Rain

Dubela, Jit Roy: Delhi experienced heavy rain and strong winds on Friday, revealing that the city is still not fully prepared for the monsoon season. Many areas were flooded, causing severe traffic jams and making travel difficult for residents.
As every year, familiar trouble spots like Dhaula Kuan, Minto Road Underpass, ITO, and Ring Road were flooded due to the heavy downpour. New areas such as the airport flyover and South Extension II also faced serious waterlogging. Social media was flooded with complaints and frustrations from affected citizens. Roads like Najafgarh Road, Pankha Road, and Jantar Mantar experienced traffic disruptions due to water accumulation.
Delhi’s PWD Minister Parvesh Verma visited the frequently flooded Minto Road underpass, while Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inspected heavily affected areas such as Majnu Ka Tila. Gupta pointed out issues like blocked drains and broken roads, urging officials to address them immediately. She called the rainfall a “serious warning” about the city’s inadequate infrastructure.
Political leaders exchanged blame over the situation. CM Gupta blamed the previous government for poor preparations, while BJP MLA Ravindra Singh Negi stated that the current administration has just taken charge and has already begun cleaning drains in East Delhi. NDMC officials said they are deploying pumps and cleaning sewers to reduce waterlogging in their areas.
The heavy rain exposed Delhi’s ongoing drainage problems during intense showers. Citizens are now questioning whether the city’s pre-monsoon preparations were sufficient and are demanding lasting solutions to prevent future flooding.