Heavy showers on Tuesday brought much-needed relief to Delhi after a spell of unusually hot weather, but the downpour also posed challenges for festival-goers and air travelers. The rain arrived as the city marked Dussehra and Durga Puja, raising concerns over disruptions to pandals and celebrations.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had earlier issued an alert warning of light rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). Showers were also predicted for nearby areas including Sonipat, Jhajjar, Rewari, Mahendragarh, Palwal, and Nuh in Haryana, as well as Khatauli and Sakoti Tanda in Uttar Pradesh.
Airlines issue travel advisories
Several airlines advised passengers to check flight updates due to weather-related disruptions. IndiGo urged travelers to confirm flight status via its app or website before heading to the airport. Air India warned of possible flight delays and heavy traffic, asking passengers to allow extra time for their journey. SpiceJet highlighted the likelihood of disrupted arrivals and departures, while Akasa Air alerted passengers about slow-moving traffic near the airport and suggested planning additional travel time.
Traffic concerns amid festive gatherings
The Delhi Traffic Police also issued a cautionary note as large crowds gathered at Durga Puja pandals in CR Park. With Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s possible visit to the Kali Mandir pandal, heavy congestion was anticipated on routes such as the Outer Ring Road (Panchsheel to Greater Kailash), Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg, JB Tito Marg, Inder Mohan Bhardwaj Marg, and CR Park Main Road.
IMD forecast for October
Looking ahead, the IMD forecast suggests a cloudy start to October with light rainfall or drizzle likely on October 1. From October 2 to 6, the capital is expected to remain largely dry with a mix of cloudy and clear skies. October 5 may see mainly clear weather, while October 6 could turn partly cloudy by evening. Importantly, no major weather warnings have been issued for the week.
While the rain has provided some respite from the heat, residents and commuters in Delhi are being urged to remain cautious as festivities and travel plans continue through the week.
