New Delhi, August 20: Heavy rain lashed Delhi on Thursday, leaving several parts of South Delhi waterlogged and causing major traffic disruptions on key roads, including routes leading towards the airport. The sudden spell of intense rainfall affected normal movement during the morning hours, with commuters facing long delays and vehicles moving slowly through flooded stretches.
Several arterial roads and underpasses were reported to be submerged following the downpour. The Delhi-Airport road was among the affected stretches, creating difficulties for passengers and commuters travelling towards Indira Gandhi International Airport. Traffic congestion was also reported in adjoining areas as vehicles struggled to negotiate waterlogged roads.
The heavy rain once again highlighted Delhi's recurring monsoon waterlogging problem. Low-lying areas and stretches with inadequate drainage can quickly become difficult to navigate after intense showers, disrupting both private and public transport.
The India Meteorological Department has issued a yellow alert for Delhi, warning of continued rainfall activity. Authorities have advised commuters to remain cautious, particularly while travelling through waterlogged roads and underpasses.
The latest disruption comes after several episodes of heavy monsoon rain across Delhi-NCR this month. Earlier in August, prolonged rainfall had caused extensive waterlogging in South Delhi, with areas around Mahipalpur, Chhatarpur, Saket, Greater Kailash and Mehrauli-Badarpur Road among those affected. Major traffic corridors, including parts of the Delhi-Gurugram highway and Mathura Road, also witnessed severe congestion.
For airport-bound passengers, the disruption has raised concerns about travel time, particularly during peak hours. With traffic moving slowly on several stretches, commuters have been urged to plan their journeys with additional time.
The continuing spells of heavy rain have also renewed concerns over Delhi's drainage infrastructure. While civic agencies regularly deploy pumps and teams to clear accumulated water, repeated flooding of major roads remains a challenge during intense monsoon spells.
As rain continues to affect parts of the national capital, commuters are being advised to check traffic conditions before starting their journey and avoid flooded underpasses or stretches where water levels are high.