Heavy rains lashed parts of Ghaziabad earlier this week, revealing the city’s glaring unpreparedness in handling the monsoon. From waterlogged streets to overflowing drains, the downpour disrupted daily life in multiple localities, including Raj Nagar Extension, Indirapuram, Lal Kuan, Mohan Nagar, and Lohiya Nagar.
Residents in several societies, especially in Indirapuram’s Shakti Khand and Niti Khand, were left wading through ankle-deep water as civic agencies failed to clear out clogged drains. Locals complained that silt, even when removed, was left along the sides of roads, only to wash back into the drains with the rain—further choking the system.
Public Frustration and Legal Challenge
In a stark example of the consequences of this civic failure, a Mercedes-Benz owner sent a legal notice to the Ghaziabad Municipal Corporation (GMC) after his car stalled in floodwaters near Sahibabad on July 23. The owner has demanded ₹5 lakh as compensation for damages, alleging negligence on part of the authorities.
Officials Acknowledge the Issue
Responding to criticism, Mayor Sunita Dayal assured that the civic body will initiate contractor audits and blacklist underperforming agencies. Meanwhile, Ward Councillor Radhey Shyam Tyagi promised to get the drains cleaned and systems restored within 15 days. Officials also admitted the non-operational waste-to-energy plant at Galand is worsening the issue, as there is no efficient mechanism to dispose of extracted sludge.
Travel Advisory Amid Rain
Amid the weather disruptions, airlines issued advisories. IndiGo Airlines posted a travel alert cautioning flyers about expected delays in and around Delhi Airport due to heavy rainfall. The airline urged passengers to allow extra travel time and stay updated on their flight status. Air India also issued a similar advisory, advising caution and preparedness.
Conclusion
The rain may have lasted a few hours, but it exposed deep-rooted structural issues in Ghaziabad’s civic planning and execution. As citizens call for accountability and better disaster preparedness, authorities now face pressure to ensure that basic services do not collapse every time the clouds open up.
