Delhi: Political Slugfest Ensues As First Monsoon Rain Wreaks Havoc In Capital — Top Points

Early morning rain inundated the city, causing severe waterlogging that submerged vehicles, and brought traffic to a standstill. Many residents were stranded, unable to reach offices or appointments. 

Waterlogging at the Minto Bridge underpass following heavy rains. ( Image Source :PTI Images )

Delhi experienced severe disruption on Friday as the monsoon rains hit, leading to widespread flooding, the collapse of the roof at Terminal 1 of the Delhi airport, and the death of one person. The downpour also led to the electrocution of a 39-year-old man in the Rohini area. The first rains in the national capital sparked various political reactions. 

Delhi Faces Chaos With Monsoon's First Downpor: Top Points

• Early morning rain inundated the city, causing severe waterlogging that submerged vehicles, flooded homes, and brought traffic to a standstill. Many residents were stranded, unable to reach offices or appointments. 
• Key tunnels, including Pragati Maidan, were closed and upscale areas such as Lutyens Delhi, Hauz Khas, South Extension, and Mayur Vihar reported major flooding, a PTI report said. 
• The Safdurjung Observatory recorded 228.1 mm of rainfall in 24 hours, the highest June rainfall in 88 years, surpassing the average of 74.1 mm for the month. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed the arrival of the monsoon after the heavy downpour began around 3 AM.
• At Terminal 1 of the Delhi airport, the canopy covering the departure area collapsed around 5 AM, trapping several people and causing major damage. The collapse pinned down parked cars and halted flight operations temporarily.
• The Delhi government convened an emergency meeting to address the situation, with AAP minister Atishi stating that the city received 25% of its total monsoon rainfall in just 24 hours. 
• Lt Governor VK Saxena directed officials to set up an emergency control room and deploy static pumps to address waterlogging issues. He noted that the de-silting of drains had not been completed, and the Flood Control Order was yet to be issued.
• Political tensions flared as BJP Councillor Ravinder Singh Negi criticised the Delhi government for inadequate preparation, highlighting images of water entering AAP minister Atishi's residence. 
•  "It means, out of total monsoon rainfall (800 mm) in Delhi, 25 per cent rain occurred in just 24 hours. Due to this, reason drain overflow happened in several areas and it took time for water to drain out," the Delhi minister said.
• MPs Shashi Tharoor and Manish Tewari posted videos showing flooding outside their homes in Lutyens Delhi. Tharoor's home was severely affected, with water damaging carpets and furniture. 
• The BJP demanded the resignation of the AAP government, sharing a video of a man being rescued from a waterlogged underpass. He questioned the government's effectiveness and accused it of making "false" promises. 
• The city experienced severe waterlogging in main roads, underpasses, flyovers, residential areas, and major markets, disrupting vehicular traffic. The Delhi BJP president accused the AAP government and the MCD of corruption and failure to desilt drains, causing waterlogging during the monsoon season.