Heavy rainfall disrupted normal life in the National Capital causing severe waterlogging and traffic jams in several areas of the city. Waterlogging has been reported in different areas of the city including Minto Road, ITO, Mathura Road, Rohtak Road, Okhla, Tilak Bridge, Aurobindo Marg, Azad Market, Outer Ring Road and Ghazipur Border.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) said that Monsoon has arrived in New Delhi leading to several cases of urban flooding . Intense rainfall has lashed various parts of the National Capital in the wee hours today. Talking to Akashvani News, Senior IMD Scientist R.K. Jenamani informed that Safdarjung weather station has recorded extremely high rainfall, about 228 millimeter while the Lodhi Road area received nearly two hundred millimeter rain. Moderate to heavy spells are likely to continue in the city today. He further said that the Monsoon has covered most parts of North and Central India including Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Bihar and is heading further upwards. IMD has issued an orange alert in the region for the next two days.
Meanwhile, one person had lost his life and four people were injured after a roof collapsed at the Terminal-1 of Delhi airport. Ministry of Civil Aviation said, heavy rain in early morning today has resulted in the collapse of the canopy of Delhi Airport Terminal 1. It said, as a result of which flights to and from Terminal 1 have been closed till further notice. The Ministry said, alternate arrangements are being made for smooth operation of the flights.
Union Civil Aviation Minister K Ram Mohan Naidu visited the site. Later speaking to media, he said, as soon as the incident happened, the Government reacted immediately and sent the emergency response team, the fire safety team, the CISF and NDRF teams. Mr Naidu said, right now, the situation is under control. He said, flights of Terminal 1 have been diverted to Terminal 2 and Terminal 3.
In a social media post, Mr Naidu said, he is personally monitoring the roof collapse incident at T1 Delhi Airport. He said, the first responders are working at site. The Minister has also advised the airlines to assist all affected passengers at T1. He said the injured have been evacuated to the hospital. Mr. Naidu also visited Safdarjung Hospital and met the people who got injured in the incident.
According to government sources, the roof that collapsed at the Delhi Airport’s terminal 1 was constructed during 2008-09. The work was contracted out by GMR to private contractors.
Delhi Airport is extending all support to the families of the individuals. It has announced a compensation of 20 Lakh rupees to the family of the deceased and three Lakh rupees each to those injured.
The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has informed that the entry and exit at Yashobhoomi Dwarka Sector – 25 Metro station has been closed due to heavy rains. it said, the shuttle service from Delhi Aerocity Metro station to Terminal 1-IGI Airport has also been suspended. There is normal service on all other lines.
