Chandigarh, India:
The city of Chandigarh witnessed heavy monsoon showers over the weekend, causing severe waterlogging, a road collapse, and multiple traffic disruptions. On Sunday, due to continuous rainfall, a portion of the road near Sector 26 (Bapudham area) caved in, trapping a car. This incident occurred at a site where a pipeline was recently laid but had not been properly covered or reinforced.
In another major disruption, the main road near the railway bridge in Industrial Area Phase-1 was closed due to flooding. Several vehicles were seen stuck in stagnant water, prompting the authorities to restrict movement through that route.
☔ 119mm Rainfall in a Single Day: Highest of the Season
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Chandigarh recorded 119mm of rainfall within 24 hours — the heaviest in recent weeks. Breakdown of rainfall data:
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Sector 39 Observatory: 34mm
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Airport Observatory: 29.6mm
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Late Saturday night: Additional 29mm
These figures have significantly exceeded the normal rainfall for this time of year, resulting in water accumulation in multiple low-lying areas of the city.
🌡️ Temperature Drop: Relief and Challenges
While the showers brought down the city’s temperature and offered a break from the sweltering heat, they also led to increased humidity and discomfort.
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Maximum temperature: 33.9°C (2°C below normal)
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Minimum temperature: 23.8°C (3°C below normal)
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Humidity: Around 95%
The cool weather was welcomed by residents, but the damp conditions and blocked drainage worsened public inconvenience.
🟠 Orange Alert Issued: Heavy Rain Predicted Until Tuesday
The IMD has issued an Orange Alert for Chandigarh, warning of heavy to very heavy rain from Sunday through Tuesday.
Forecast Summary:
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Sunday: Thunderstorms with heavy rainfall. Max temp: 34°C, Min: 24°C
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Monday: Heavy rainfall expected. Max: 32°C, Min: 23°C
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Tuesday: Likely continuation of showers. Max: 32°C, Min: 24°C
According to IMD Director Surender Pal, a shift in wind patterns and increased moisture from the Bay of Bengal have created highly favorable conditions for consistent rain in northern India.
🌦️ Rainfall to Reduce After July 2
IMD has also indicated that after July 2, the monsoon trough is expected to shift from Uttar Pradesh towards Madhya Pradesh. This shift may lead to a drop in rainfall intensity in North India and an increase in Central India. However, intermittent rain may still continue across some parts of the region.
⚠️ Civic Advisory: Stay Alert, Avoid Waterlogged Areas
The Chandigarh administration has issued public safety advisories urging citizens to:
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Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall
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Stay away from flooded roads and low-lying areas
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Keep drains near homes and shops clear
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Take extra precautions for the elderly and children
Authorities are also monitoring water levels in the drainage system and have mobilized emergency response teams.
🛠️ Civic Inaction Under Scrutiny After Road Collapse
The cave-in at Sector 26 has raised serious concerns about the municipal corporation’s negligence. Local residents expressed anger over incomplete repair works and poor planning following pipeline construction. Officials are now being held accountable for the poor quality of temporary road patching that led to the incident.
