NDMC Apologises for Waterlogging, Promises Robust Drainage After Heavy Delhi Rains
The New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) has issued a public apology to residents after waterlogging caused significant disruption across several areas under its jurisdiction following an intense spell of rainfall on August 25, 2026. Chairperson Manoj Kumar Dwivedi acknowledged the inconvenience faced by citizens and outlined a series of measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Dwivedi expressed sincere regret over the waterlogging that occurred on Tuesday. He noted that under normal conditions, the civic body is able to clear accumulated water within 15 to 20 minutes. However, in at least three to four locations, the drainage process took more than an hour, leaving roads and residential areas submerged.
“I sincerely apologise to everyone in the NDMC area who faced difficulties due to waterlogging instances on August 25,” Dwivedi wrote. He emphasised that while the heavy rainfall was unexpected, it could not be treated as an excuse for the disruption residents endured.
Meteorological data showed that the national capital received more than 72 millimetres of rainfall in less than two hours during the peak of the downpour. Such intense precipitation in a short span of time often overwhelms urban drainage systems, leading to waterlogging even in areas with well-maintained infrastructure.
Dwivedi said the NDMC will undertake both short-term and long-term measures to make the entire area “fully waterlogging free.” While he did not specify the exact nature of these measures, he assured citizens that the council is committed to strengthening its systems to handle heavy rainfall more efficiently.
“We will work to ensure that our citizens should not face any inconvenience in future,” he stated, adding that the NDMC is open to suggestions from residents to improve its water management system.
This incident highlights the recurring challenge of urban flooding in Delhi, a city where rapid construction and inadequate drainage infrastructure have historically contributed to waterlogging during the monsoon season. Civic agencies across the capital have faced criticism in the past for their preparedness during heavy rains.
In response to the recent waterlogging, residents have taken to social media to share photographs and videos of flooded streets, with many calling for more proactive measures from civic authorities. Some have also pointed out that the NDMC, which is responsible for areas like Connaught Place, India Gate, and several upscale neighbourhoods, has failed to keep up with the city's growing drainage needs.
The apology and promise of reform come as Delhi continues to experience a wet monsoon season. Weather forecasts suggest that more rainfall is expected in the coming days, putting additional pressure on the city's infrastructure. The NDMC's ability to implement its promised measures will be closely watched by residents and civic watchdog groups alike.
As the council prepares to address these systemic issues, the immediate focus remains on clearing existing waterlogging and ensuring that all vulnerable points are identified and reinforced. Dwivedi’s public acknowledgment of the problem and his appeal for citizen collaboration may help rebuild trust, but sustained effort and transparent execution will be needed to prevent a recurrence of Monday's disruption.
