Chandigarh drowns in record-breaking rainfall: Waterlogged streets and traffic nightmare

Chandigarh, July 9: Chandigarh has witnessed the highest 24-hour rainfall in July, breaking a nearly 23-year-old record. The city experienced its highest-ever rainfall for this season in a single day, recording 322.2 mm of rain in the span of 24 hours, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

The previous record for the highest rainfall in Chandigarh during July was 262 mm, which was set on July 18, 2000. The heavy downpour led to waterlogging and traffic congestion across the city, causing inconvenience to residents. Roads were submerged, and knee-deep water entered houses in many villages.

The Meteorological Department official stated that the rain is expected to continue throughout Sunday, gradually reducing from Monday onwards. The Chandigarh administration has put over 20 rescue and relief teams on alert and urged department heads to remain vigilant.

In separate incidents, a portion of the road between Sectors 14 and 15 collapsed, diverting traffic, and a significant section of a 15-20-foot-high wall near the Dadumajra landfill collapsed due to the incessant rains, resulting in leachate from the landfill entering nearby houses.

Furthermore, the floodgates of Sukhna Lake were opened to a height of 7 inches, which is higher than the usual maximum of 2 to 3 inches. The lake's water level had already crossed the danger mark, prompting the authorities to take preventive measures.

The rainfall in Chandigarh marks a significant weather event, with the city experiencing exceptional precipitation that surpasses previous records and disrupts normal life.

Also Read: Punjab Police on high alert: Preparedness for potential floods directed by CM Bhagwant Mann