The monsoon season in Delhi NCR has caused significant challenges for residents, with 86% facing issues due to waterlogging, according to a recent survey by LocalCircles. The impact has been felt across Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad, highlighting the region’s lack of monsoon preparedness.
One of the main concerns reported by respondents is the increased time spent in traffic on waterlogged roads, leading to delays and gridlocks. This has resulted in a loss of productivity for many, with 86% of respondents reporting the loss of valuable working hours due to transportation delays. Additionally, residents have faced increased vehicle maintenance costs, such as engine damage and tyre wear, due to prolonged idling in traffic.
Financial losses have also been incurred by 71% of those surveyed, as missed flights, trains, and other commitments have been a common occurrence. The inability to reach transportation hubs on time has caused inconvenience and monetary setbacks for many residents.
The survey highlighted the dissatisfaction of residents with the civic bodies’ handling of waterlogging, with Delhi and Gurugram being the worst affected. Lack of preparedness and ineffective flood management projects have left many areas vulnerable to flooding, despite the annual monsoon season. Neglect of drainage systems and water harvesting initiatives has further worsened the situation, leading to repeated instances of waterlogging.
Social media has been abuzz with complaints and videos showcasing the extent of the waterlogging issue. From flooded homes in Gurugram to rain-soaked goods in Delhi, residents have been vocal about the challenges they are facing. Calls for immediate action from authorities have been made, but the response has been slow, exacerbating the problems with each new spell of rain.