The heavy rainfall in Delhi on the evening of July 31 caused widespread chaos, flooding large parts of the city and leading to severe traffic jams, leaving many residents stranded. Tragically, a building collapse during the downpour resulted in the death of Anil Kumar Gupta, who was inside the building when it gave way at 8:30 p.m. He was taken to Saint Stephens Hospital, but unfortunately, he did not survive his injuries.
Despite efforts by the civic body and the Public Works Department (PWD), waterlogging remains a persistent issue in many areas of Delhi. Officials and experts point out that even with an impeccably maintained drainage system, the city’s infrastructure struggles to cope with heavy rains.
Reasons for Persistent Waterlogging
- Outdated Drainage System: Delhi’s drainage system is designed to handle up to 50 mm of rainwater, which is often exceeded during heavy rains, leading to overflow and waterlogging.
- Rapid Urbanization: The rapid pace of urban development has reduced green spaces that naturally absorb rainwater, putting more pressure on the drainage system.
- Clogged Drains: Drains frequently get clogged with debris and waste, reducing their effectiveness and capacity to manage rainwater.
- Climate Change: The increasing frequency and intensity of rainfall due to climate change often surpass the capacity of the existing drainage infrastructure.
To mitigate these issues, Delhi needs significant upgrades to its drainage infrastructure, sustainable urban planning to preserve green spaces, and regular maintenance to ensure drains are clear and functioning properly.