Monsoon Mayhem in Delhi: Flights Delayed, Roads Flooded, BRICS Summit Looms

On Saturday morning a sudden burst of heavy rain swept across Delhi and the surrounding NCR region, turning what should have been a routine commute into a scramble.

Airlines were quick to sound the alarm. IndiGo, Air India and Akasa Air all issued advisories warning that the soggy weather could mess with flight schedules. Passengers were told to double‑check their flight status and to allow extra time for the journey – after all, you never know how long a traffic jam might stretch when the roads turn into little rivers.

Despite the chaos, officials at Indira Gandhi International Airport said that operations were still running “normal” by 10:30 am. The airport’s operator, GMR, mentioned that its ground crews were busy coordinating with airlines and other stakeholders to keep things moving as smoothly as possible. Still, the advice was clear: call your airline for the latest updates before you head out.

The rain didn’t just affect the skies. Moderate showers drenched parts of Delhi, Noida and Ghaziabad, dropping the temperature a few degrees but leaving puddles in its wake. Waterlogged spots quickly appeared in places like the Palam Airport tunnel, Geeta Colony, Mandi House and Subroto Park, turning some streets into miniature canals.

India’s Meteorological Department had already put out a yellow‑to‑orange alert, warning of light to moderate rain, occasional thunderstorms, lightning and gusty winds ranging between 30 and 40 kmph. The forecast pegged the day’s high at around 30 °C – a comfortable number if you can stay dry.

Adding another layer of complexity, the Delhi Traffic Police reminded commuters that the city was also gearing up for rehearsals linked to the upcoming BRICS summit. That meant extra caution near bridges, underpasses and any low‑lying stretches that could become slick. Drivers were urged not to park or halt their vehicles under such structures, as even a few minutes of standing water can cause trouble.

In short, the monsoon turned a typical Saturday into a logistical puzzle: flights delayed, roads waterlogged, and the city hustling to keep everything on track ahead of a major international event.