Heavy Rain Waterlogs Delhi Airport, Passengers Wade Through Terminal Approach
Heavy rain caused waterlogging at Delhi's IGI Airport, forcing passengers to wade through water and diverting five flights.
A heavy monsoon downpour on Friday led to significant waterlogging at the entry gates of Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, creating chaotic scenes for passengers arriving at the terminal.
Videos and pictures from the scene showed travellers rolling up their trousers and pushing luggage trolleys through ankle-deep water to reach the arrival gates. One passenger, waiting for the water to recede, described the situation as unprecedented, stating she had been standing for nearly half an hour. Another traveller noted a similar incident occurring two years ago, adding that the rain this year felt heavier.
The waterlogging also impacted flight operations, with at least five inbound flights to Delhi being diverted to Lucknow airport as a precautionary measure.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded 3.4 mm of rain at Palam between 11:30 am and 2:30 pm, while Najafgarh received 0.5 mm. The weather office has issued a Yellow Alert for the city, warning of potential waterlogging in low-lying areas and underpasses, along with possible traffic disruptions.
The IMD forecast predicts continued light to moderate rain, thunderstorms, and lightning at many places through the evening, with heavy rainfall expected at isolated spots. Commuters have been advised to check traffic updates before heading out and to avoid areas near power lines during thunderstorms.