Monsoon Fury Across India: Delhi Waterlogged, Surat Flooded & Landslides Trigger Chaos

New Delhi: Monsoon has now gained momentum and its effect is visible simultaneously in the entire country. Torrential rains in the last 24 hours have shaken life from Delhi-NCR to Gujarat, Maharashtra, Kerala, Jammu-Kashmir and Rajasthan. Roads in many cities turned into ponds, landslides occurred on the mountains and relief teams had to evacuate people at various places. The weather department has also clearly said that there will be no relief in the next 2-3 days. The period of heavy rains will continue in many areas.

Which areas showed the most pressure?

The rain that started in Delhi and NCR on Thursday morning slowed down the pace of the people. Thousands of office going people got stuck in the traffic jam. Many colonies and underpasses were flooded. Many major roads of Gurugram also remained submerged, following which the police appealed to private companies to provide facilities to their employees to work from home. Due to continuous rain, long queues of vehicles were seen on the highway.

Why increased concern in Mumbai and Gujarat?

Once again heavy rains slowed down the speed of local train services in Mumbai. Some long distance trains also ran late. On the other hand, Surat city of Gujarat is still struggling with flood like situation. Thousands of people living in low-lying areas have been evacuated to safe places. The administration is continuously distributing relief material, while many colonies are still filled with water.

Why has relief work in hill states become a challenge?

The search for missing people continues after a mudslide near the tunnel project in Kerala's Wayanad, but intermittent rains are hampering the rescue operations. After the sudden floods in Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir, the administration has deployed additional teams in many sensitive areas. People have been asked to remain alert in view of the possibility of landslides on the hilly roads.

Did the incident of building collapse in Delhi increase concern?

Three people died after a four-storey building collapsed in Rohini area amid rain. Initial investigation has revealed technical flaws related to the construction work. However, officials say that it is too early to link the accident directly to rain. The work of removing debris continued for several hours.

Why is the central government continuously monitoring?

Seeing the situation in the rain-affected states, Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to the chief ministers of many states on phone and got information about the situation. The centre has also assured to provide additional assistance if needed. The National Disaster Management and state agencies have been put on alert mode so that immediate action can be taken in case of any emergency.

What warning has the Meteorological Department given?

India Meteorological Department says that the active phase of monsoon will continue. There is a possibility of heavy rain in many parts of North, West and South India for the next few days. In areas where there is already a risk of waterlogging or landslides, people have been asked to avoid unnecessary travel and follow the advice of the local administration.