Two killed, schools closed amid heavy rains in Delhi

New Delhi, Aug 01: The monsoon rains have caused severe disruption in Delhi, leading to record rainfall across several parts of the city since yesterday.  The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert, advising residents to stay indoors, secure their homes, and avoid unnecessary travel.

In Ghazipur, a mother and a child drowned after slipping into a waterlogged drain near Khoda Colony. In north Delhi's Sabji Mandi area, a house collapsed near Robin Cinema, injuring one person, while in Vasant Kunj, a woman was hurt when a wall collapsed due to the heavy rains.

Impact on Kanwar Yatra

Delhi is also witnessing the Kanwar Yatra, during which hundreds of devotees walk from the Ganges River in Uttar Pradesh, carrying pots of sacred water to offer at local Shiva temples. Thousands of faithful participants, carrying pots that must not touch the ground, are making their way across the city with fervour and celebration. Police and administrative authorities have made special arrangements, creating corridors for safe passage, and diverting traffic. However, many of these corridors have been inundated with rainwater, forcing authorities and religious leaders to change the routes.

In a post on X, Delhi Traffic Police stated, “In view of the movement of Kanwarias from Noida to Delhi at Kalindi Kunj border, #DelhiTrafficPolice has made elaborate traffic arrangements to minimize inconvenience to commuters and Kanwarias. Kindly follow the traffic advisory.” Traffic entering from Noida via Kalindi Kunj Yamuna bridge is being redirected to Road No. 13-A to reach Sarita Vihar flyover, while movement on Agra Kanal Road is restricted. Heavy vehicles heading to Noida are being restricted on Road No. 13-A to reduce congestion on the Kalindi Kunj Yamuna bridge.

Weather Forecast and Traffic Disruptions

The IMD has reported that clouds have converged over Delhi from all directions and has advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel. Intermittent showers are expected in Delhi until August 5, causing slippery roads, low visibility, traffic disruptions, and localized waterlogging in low-lying areas.

School Closures and Public Safety

Delhi Education Minister Atishi announced that all schools in the city, both government and private, will remain closed on August 1. On her official handle on the microblogging site X, she posted, "In light of the very heavy rainfall this evening and the forecast of heavy rainfall tomorrow, all schools—government and private—will remain closed tomorrow."

Delhi Mayor Shelly Oberoi announced on her X handle that all schools under the Municipal Corporation of Delhi will remain closed on August 1, given the forecast of adverse weather conditions.

As Delhi and its surrounding areas continue to grapple with the heavy rains, the authorities are working tirelessly to manage the situation and ensure the safety of all residents.