Torrential Rains Lash India for Two Days, Disrupting Transport and Forcing Thousands to Evacuate

(Central News Agency Reporter Li Jin-wei, New Delhi, 9th, Special Report) Torrential rains have battered many parts of India, including Delhi and Mumbai, for two consecutive days, causing floods, landslides, building collapses, and widespread transportation disruptions. To date, thousands have been evacuated, rescue operations are ongoing, and the central government is assessing the damage.

Heavy rainfall occurred in parts of India on August 8th and 9th, severely disrupting rail and road transport in several states. Rescue teams have been deployed to multiple locations, and thousands have been evacuated from affected areas. The India Meteorological Department has warned of more intense rainfall in many regions.

According to India Today, Delhi experienced its strongest rainfall of the season late on August 8th, leading to severe waterlogging in many areas and traffic paralysis across the city. In the 24 hours leading up to 8:30 AM on August 9th, astonishing rainfall amounts were recorded: Mayur Vihar received 102 mm, Pusa 83 mm, Lodhi Road 80 mm, and Safdarjung 72.6 mm. During this period, a four-story building collapsed in Rohini, resulting in three deaths. The cause of the collapse is pending professional investigation.

Many major roads in Delhi's National Capital Region (NCR) were severely flooded, causing significant traffic jams. The Delhi Fire Department has been continuously receiving reports of fallen trees, waterlogged roads, and power outages.

Mumbai also reported damage. Heavy rainfall and lightning caused train delays, and waterlogged roads led to traffic congestion, heavily impacting commuters. A garbage mountain collapsed due to the torrential rain, with fears that 11 people may be trapped. Rescue efforts are currently underway.

In Gujarat, affected by floods from the heavy rains, local officials stated that at least nine people have died in rain-related incidents in the past few days. Thousands of residents living in low-lying areas have been evacuated to safe locations.

As the rainfall continues, many areas remain submerged, with some residents trapped on higher floors. While their immediate safety is not compromised, food and drinking water supplies have been depleted. The government is working to deliver food packages to these individuals to help them through the crisis.

In Kerala, five workers went missing due to a tunnel collapse while on a construction site. Search and rescue operations are ongoing. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan visited the site to monitor the situation, but the rainfall has hampered rescue progress.

The India Meteorological Department forecasts more rainfall in many areas in the coming days, increasing the possibility of floods and transportation disruptions. Relevant departments are closely monitoring the situation. (Editor: Yang Sheng-ru) 0709