Waterlogging, traffic chaos expose infrastructure failures
Anshita Mehra
New Delhi, July 24
Delhi was drenched in heavy rains on Wednesday, offering a refreshing break from the relentless heat and humidity. The downpour, while a welcome relief, also exposed persistent issues with the city’s infrastructure as waterlogged streets became a common sight across various neighbourhoods
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a ‘yellow’ alert for Delhi and its adjoining areas, predicting more showers on Thursday. A yellow alert indicates heavy rainfall between 6 cm and 11 cm.
Delhi’s Narela and Pusa weather stations recorded rainfall of 12.5 mm and 10.5 mm, respectively, in three hours from 2.30 pm to 5.30 pm, according to the IMD.
Though waterlogging caused inconvenience to commuters, the rain kept the Air Quality Index (AQI) at a satisfactory level of 97.
Due to the rains, the water levels in the Yamuna have risen, prompting the authorities to issue an alert to residents of Noida villages situated along the riverbanks. Many areas in Delhi, including Zakir Hussain Marg Golf Course, Jahangirpuri, East Delhi’s Ring Road and areas near Indira Gandhi Stadium, experienced waterlogging, causing traffic disruptions and difficulties for residents.
The Delhi Traffic Police issued advisories for several affected areas, including Chatta Rail Chowk, Nigam Bodh Ghat, Anand Parvat and the Zakhira underpass, urging commuters to avoid these waterlogged spots.
Delhi Congress president Devender Yadav said, “The electrocution of a 26-year-old Civil Services aspirant, Nilesh Rai, near the Patel Nagar metro station is yet another instance of gross negligence by the Delhi Government, Municipal Corporation of Delhi and the power distribution companies.”
Yadav said, “These deaths have become a recurring feature when it rains in the Capital.” He demanded Rs 1 crore in compensation for the family of the deceased, describing him as a “bright boy who was sent to Delhi to pursue his Civil Service dreams but became a victim of Delhi’s irresponsible government departments.” He also pledged that the Delhi Congress would extend all possible help to get justice for Rai’s family.
He further criticised the power companies for their lack of responsibility despite frequent tariff hikes. “The power companies, who hike power tariffs at the slightest of pretexts, the latest being the PPAC (Power Purchase Adjustment Charge) tariff hike by almost 9 per cent, do not discharge their duties responsibly. As a result, a precious life was lost due to their fearlessness,” he said, referring to Rai’s death.
Highlighting the inefficiency of the MCD and Delhi Government departments, Yadav pointed out that despite promises from Delhi Water Minister Atishi, waterlogging remains a persistent issue. “The MCD and Delhi Government departments have once again failed to prevent waterlogging, despite Atishi’s promise of preventing waterlogging after the first couple of monsoon rains submerged the streets of the city,” he stated.
As Delhi continues to face infrastructure challenges, the recent rains have once again exposed the city’s vulnerabilities and the urgent need for effective governance and management of public resources.
Govt orders probe into IAS aspirant’s death
New Delhi: The Delhi Government on Wednesday ordered a probe into death of a 26-year-old IAS aspirant due to electrocution in Patel Nagar area of the city and directed the Chief Secretary to submit a report by July 26. Power Minister Atishi, in a communication marked to Chief Secretary Naresh Kumar, said the shocking incident has come to light, where 26-year-old IAS aspirant Nilesh Rai lost his life due to electrocution in Patel Nagar area. She told the CS to submit the report on the same by 5 pm on July 26.
Noida villages alerted
- The India Meteorological Department issues ‘yellow’ alert for Delhi and its adjoining areas
- The water levels in the Yamuna have risen, prompting the authorities to issue an alert to residents of Noida villages situated along the riverbanks.
