Delhi-NCR Lashed by Heavy Rains: Waterlogging, Traffic Gridlock, Flight Delays, and Tragedy in Dwarka
Delhi-NCR | May 2, 2025 : A fierce spell of heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds battered Delhi-NCR early morning, paralyzing daily life and triggering widespread disruptions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, and Gurugram, urging residents to remain indoors and exercise caution.
In Ghaziabad, thousands of commuters were caught in severe traffic congestion as waterlogged roads brought the city to a standstill. The worst bottlenecks were reported near UP-Gate crossing at Ghazipur, where water accumulation at a low-lying stretch on the Hindon elevated road caused major delays for vehicles headed toward Delhi.
Other severely affected stretches included NH-9 near Sector 62, Lal Kuan, Chijarsi crossing, and Mohan Nagar, where commuters reported being stuck in traffic for over an hour during peak office hours.
Meanwhile, Delhi Airport issued an urgent advisory warning travelers of flight delays and disruptions due to adverse weather. “Due to inclement weather conditions and thunderstorms in Delhi, some flights have been impacted,” read a statement from the airport. Passengers were urged to check flight status with airlines before leaving for the airport.
Tragedy struck Dwarka when a tree, uprooted by strong winds, fell on a tubewell room in Kharkhari Canal village, killing a woman and her three children. The deceased have been identified as Jyoti (26) and her children. Her husband Ajay sustained minor injuries and is currently recovering. The Delhi Police confirmed the incident and called it a grim reminder of the dangers posed by extreme weather events.
As Delhi-NCR grapples with the consequences of Friday’s storm, authorities have urged residents to stay vigilant. With more rainfall forecasted for the coming days, the focus now shifts to ensuring safety, improving response mechanisms, and reinforcing the region’s drainage and road infrastructure.
