New Delhi, July 9 -- Heavy rainfall that lashed the national capital over the past 24 hours put Delhi's monsoon preparedness to its biggest test this season, prompting the government to activate round-the-clock monitoring and emergency response teams across the city. While waterlogging was reported from several areas, the Delhi government claimed that major roads and traditionally flood-prone underpasses remained largely functional due to extensive pre-monsoon preparations.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Delhi recorded 72.6 mm of rainfall in the 24 hours ending at 8.30 am on Thursday. Waterlogging was reported from Vikas Marg, parts of East Delhi, New Delhi Railway Station, Munirka, Sadar Bazar and Dwarka.
Officials said all government agencies were put on alert under the directions of Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, with teams of the Public Works Department (PWD), Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and Delhi Jal Board (DJB) deployed across the city to respond to complaints.
PWD Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh reviewed the city's preparedness from the department's 24x7 Monsoon Control Room, where he monitored live CCTV feeds, assessed field operations and directed officials to maintain maximum preparedness.
The department said it has identified 45 waterlogging-prone locations, including major underpasses, all of which are under continuous surveillance through 179 CCTV cameras linked to the central control room. To tackle water accumulation, 754 permanent pumps at 167 locations and 305 temporary pumps at 273 locations have been deployed, while engineering teams and emergency staff remain on standby throughout the monsoon.
Officials informed the minister that nearly 120 public complaints were received over the past 48 hours through the control room and helpline network, with most cases attended to within 15 to 30 minutes, depending on rainfall intensity and site conditions.
Addressing the review meeting, Parvesh Sahib Singh said, "There was a time when Delhiites would worry every time it rained because waterlogging meant blocked roads, stranded vehicles and hours of inconvenience. We had assured the people that this situation would change through better planning and stronger infrastructure."
Referring to key underpasses, he added, "More than 100 mm of rainfall has been recorded in several parts of Delhi over the last 24 hours, yet locations like Minto Bridge, Zakhira, Dhaula Kuan and Moolchand... have continued to function with traffic moving smoothly. This has been possible because of months of preparation and the tireless efforts of our engineers, field staff and emergency teams."
The minister directed all officers to remain on high alert throughout the monsoon season and ensure close coordination among departments for quick response, smooth traffic movement and public convenience.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.