Heavy rains continuously showered Delhi and the whole NCR area since the start of September 2025, causing immense water-logging, disruption in the traffic flow, and an uptick in the water level of the Yamuna, currently marking above the evacuation level for the second day running. India Meteorological Department (IMD) had already sent out orange and red alerts on account of the intensity of showers, with rain falling over many districts and weather stations recording between 15 mm and 59 mm in a single day. Rising river levels forced people to be evacuated from low-lying areas and major bridges were shut down, while most landmarks like Nigambodh Ghat were inundated, disrupting even elementary civic services.
Monsoon Fury and Impact
Repeated spells of rain have made several key localities including Safdarjung, Ridge, India Gate, Noida, and Gurugram almost impassable for ordinary commuters. Delhi’s base weather station, Safdarjung, logged over 15 mm of rainfall by evening, with Ridge reporting close to 60 mm. The Yamuna rose to over 207 meters, the third-highest recorded mark in Delhi’s history, inundating relief camps and prompting urgent agency action. Schools have also been impacted, with Delhi-NCR schools going online or closing for safety of students.
Traffic, Water-logging, and Troubled Spots
Delhi NCR commuters have experienced long delays caused by waterlogged major roads, chokes drainage systems, and constant diversions. The Azad Market and Zakhira railway underpasses of North Delhi, Bhishma Pitamah Marg, Barapullah Ring Road, and NH-24 close to Vinod Nagar have suffered from regular water-logging and diversions. Regular routes through Noida, Gurugram, Connaught Place, and Mayur Vihar have been highly impacted, compelling citizens to find alternative routes or use Delhi Metro services for seamless connectivity.
Better Routes and Commuting Tips
To avoid daily chaos, Delhi Traffic Police suggest some alternate routes:
- From Singhu Border (NH44) to Model Town: Take a diversion through Mukarba Chowk, Outer Ring Road, Mukandpur Flyover, and Road No. 51.
- Avoid Zakhira railway underpass and Azad Market underpass, opt for safer travel through Chaudhary Nahar Singh Marg and Inderlok Chowk.
- Avoid Bhishma Pitamah Marg and Ring Road from Sarai Kale Khan to INA Market; Barapullah and Seva Nagar Bus Depot are the trouble areas.
- Delhi Metro is the most convenient option for cross-city travel on days of heavy rainfall and water-logging, as most stations are operational and not affected by flooding.
Public Advisory
Authorities urge citizens to avoid non-essential travel, monitor official advisories, and adhere to suggested routes and safety guidelines. With rains likely to prevail for the next few days, residents should remain vigilant and opt for public transport wherever possible to minimise disruption and stay safe.
