Tragic electrocution incident and widespread disruptions hit Delhi amid heavy rainfall

A devastating evening of torrential rain led to a series of tragic events and significant disruptions across Delhi on Wednesday. The intense downpour resulted in at least five rain-related deaths, including a tragic electrocution incident near Gurgaon’s IFFCO Chowk metro station.

Around 10 pm, three men were electrocuted while wading through rainwater in the area. They came into contact with a submerged live wire, highlighting serious safety concerns amid the ongoing weather crisis. Earlier in the day, a woman and her son drowned in an open drain in East Delhi’s Mayur Vihar Phase 3, further contributing to the day's toll.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued a red alert for the Delhi-NCR region due to the severe weather conditions. The alert was prompted by a staggering 100 mm of rainfall recorded in just one hour, accompanied by gusty winds reaching speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour. The IMD warned residents to expect continued heavy rain and thunderstorms.

The severe weather caused extensive waterlogging across the city, leading to major traffic snarls and disruptions. Key areas severely affected included ITO, Minto Bridge, Pul Prahladpur Railway Underpass, MB Road, Dhaula Kuan, Mathura Road, Sarita Vihar Metro Station, and routes from Moolchand towards Chirag Dilli. Neighborhoods such as Jangpura, Gaffar Market, Sadar Bazar, and Anuvrat Marg also experienced significant traffic issues.

In response to the widespread flooding and traffic congestion, all government and private schools in the city were declared closed for the day. The closure aimed to ensure student safety and alleviate some of the pressure on emergency services dealing with the aftermath of the storm.

Authorities are working to address the immediate impacts of the storm and are urging residents to exercise caution. The ongoing heavy rainfall and the associated risks of electrocution and drowning have underscored the urgent need for improved infrastructure and safety measures during extreme weather events.