Karmactive Staff
Heavy rainfall turned Gurugram’s roads into rivers and highways into parking lots yesterday, leaving thousands stranded in what residents called “the worst traffic jam in recent memory.”
Commuters reported being stuck for up to six hours as the National Highway 48 (Delhi-Jaipur Expressway) transformed into a 7-8 kilometer standstill following heavy downpours between 3-7 pm.
The rainfall wasn’t uniform across Gurugram, explaining why some areas faced worse flooding than others. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded over 100mm rainfall between 3-7pm, with Wazirabad receiving 116mm and Kadipur/Harsaru areas logging 94mm. Other areas recorded varied amounts: Badshahpur 56mm, Sohna 33mm, Manesar 24mm, Pataudi 13mm, and Farukh Nagar 10mm.
This localized heavy rainfall quickly overwhelmed drainage systems, particularly along NH-48 and major connecting routes.
By 7:30 pm, Gurugram Traffic Police had received approximately 200 distress calls, with over 25 vehicle breakdowns reported. The worst-hit areas included:
- NH-48 near Rajiv Chowk
- Hero Honda Chowk
- IFFCO Chowk
- Vatika-Tulip corridor
- Sohna Road
- Golf Course Extension
- Galleria/DLF Phase 4
Waterlogging reached two to three feet in several locations. Issues were reported at the Signature Tower underpass, while traffic was severely affected on multiple routes across the city.
In response to the chaos, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Gurugram advised private companies to implement work-from-home policies and directed schools to shift to online classes for September 2.
The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for September 2, warning of continued heavy rainfall.
Officials deployed pumps at NH-48 near Rajiv Chowk to drain standing water. Gurugram’s Police Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner conducted late-night inspections to coordinate water drainage efforts and clear vehicle breakdowns.
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini held a video conference with District Magistrates to review the situation and issue directives for managing the crisis.
The heavy rainfall’s effects extended beyond Gurugram, with the Old Railway Bridge in Delhi ordered closed from 5 pm on September 2 due to rising Yamuna River levels. Multiple corridors across the National Capital Region reported slow-moving traffic.
Airlines, including IndiGo and Air India, cautioned flyers about possible delays due to traffic conditions and advised checking flight status before heading to the airport.
For those needing to travel in Gurugram today:
- Check the Gurugram Traffic Police’s official social media handles for real-time updates
- Use navigation apps with live traffic updates
- Keep emergency helpline numbers handy
- Allow extra time for any essential travel
- Follow official advisories regarding school closures and work-from-home recommendations
According to the IMD’s latest bulletin, extremely heavy rain is expected in parts of Gujarat on September 4th and 5th. Heavy rainfall is also forecast for Konkan & Goa (September 1st-6th), Marathwada (September 2nd-3rd), Saurashtra & Kutch (September 4th-7th), and Madhya Maharashtra over the next seven days.
“Residents in the affected regions are advised to stay alert and take necessary precautions (stay indoors, do not take shelter under trees or weak structures, check road/traffic conditions, and avoid unnecessary travels),” the IMD stated.
The report provided information about the traffic situation in Gurugram following heavy rainfall, including details about the extent of traffic jams, rainfall distribution, affected areas, official responses, and advisories for residents.
