Heavy rainfall lashed several parts of Delhi on Sunday, offering respite from the humidity but causing widespread waterlogging across the national capital. Key areas including Connaught Place, Vijay Chowk, AIIMS, Minto Bridge, Sarojini Nagar, and Panchkuian Marg were among the worst affected.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had earlier forecast light to moderate showers for Delhi-NCR, including Noida, Gurugram, Faridabad, and Greater Noida. The rains, however, were heavier than anticipated in several zones, disrupting daily life and traffic flow. Rainfall was also reported in Janpath, Lajpat Nagar, and near Minto Bridge, areas that have historically been prone to waterlogging.
Former Delhi Chief Minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal took a swipe at the BJP-led city government, sharing a video showing Connaught Place submerged after the downpour. “When this is the condition of Connaught Place, the heart of Delhi, it’s not hard to imagine the state of the rest of Delhi,” he posted on X, calling out the inefficiency of what he termed the “four-engine government.”
AAP leader Saurabh Bhardwaj also criticised Delhi Lieutenant Governor V K Saxena and Public Works Department Minister Parvesh Verma, referencing their recent site inspections. Sharing a clip of waterlogged ITO, he wrote, “On July 9, LG Sahab and PWD Minister inspected ITO and congratulated each other. Today, with flooding again, accept my congratulations too.”
In response, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta conducted a surprise inspection of the ITO area, interacting with locals and promising better preparedness. “Clear instructions have been given to officials for effective drainage during heavy rainfall,” she stated on X. She also announced plans to modernise drainage systems, implement real-time monitoring, and set up rapid response units to address recurring flooding issues.
As the monsoon progresses, the Delhi government now faces mounting pressure to convert seasonal rainfall into relief rather than a recurring civic crisis.
