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The city of Delhi experienced a deluge of heavy rain on July 31, 2024, leading to widespread waterlogging and the unfortunate loss of life. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued an orange alert warning for heavy showers, prompting the closure of all schools in the capital. The relentless downpour began in the evening and continued into the night, causing significant disruption to daily life.
Tragically, a 22-year-old woman, identified as Tanuja, and her 3-year-old child, Priyansh, drowned in a waterlogged drain in the Ghazipur area of East Delhi. According to the police, the mother and child were reportedly walking towards the weekly Budh Bazaar when they fell into the semi-constructed drain. The incident highlights the dangers posed by waterlogged areas during heavy rainfall, particularly for vulnerable populations like children.
Beyond the tragic loss of life, the heavy rains also resulted in other challenges. A house in the Sabzi Mandi area collapsed following what was described as a ‘cloudburst’. The incident underscores the impact of heavy rainfall on infrastructure, particularly in areas susceptible to flooding. In addition to the collapse, the heavy rains led to severe traffic congestion in many parts of the city, disrupting travel and adding to the inconvenience of commuters.
In response to the heavy rains and the potential for continued downpours, the Delhi Education Minister, Atishi, announced the closure of all schools in the capital on August 1, 2024. This decision was made to ensure the safety of students and staff amidst the challenging weather conditions. The Directorate of Education also issued a formal notice confirming the school closure, urging all schools to disseminate the information to their respective staff, students, and parents.
The Delhi Mayor, Shelly Oberoi, also announced the closure of all schools under the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) for the same reason. The city’s authorities took proactive measures to mitigate the impact of the heavy rainfall and prioritize the safety of residents during the challenging weather conditions.