India’s roads and airports are getting hit hard lately. Heavy rain, sudden floods, and big events are turning smooth journeys into long, frustrating trips. If you’ve been stuck on a flooded street or watching a flight board board, you’re not alone. Below we break down the biggest reasons for traffic chaos right now and give you simple steps to stay ahead.
Monsoon‑season rains have intensified in many states. The IMD issued a red alert for Punjab, Delhi‑NCR and Uttar Pradesh after relentless downpours. In Delhi, the Yamuna rose to 207.44 m, just shy of its 1978 peak, and waterlogged roads forced police to divert traffic near IGI Airport and the Outer Ring Road. The same rains delayed 273 flight departures and 73 arrivals. Similar flood‑related jams are happening in Bihar, where the Ganga and other rivers are above danger levels, and in Uttarakhand, where a cloudburst in Chamoli’s Tharali triggered landslides and road closures.
When floods hit, it’s not just the water. Power cuts, broken drainage, and slowed emergency services add to the mess. A drain breach on the Haryana‑Delhi border forced evacuations of low‑lying colonies, and commuters had to reroute through unfamiliar streets. The result? Longer travel times and higher stress for everyone on the road.
Large gatherings also squeeze traffic. The IPL match in Kolkata, KKR vs PBKS, drew thousands of fans to Eden Gardens, creating bottlenecks on surrounding arteries. Similarly, the Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj saw massive crowds near the Triveni Sangam, pushing local traffic to its limit. When stadiums or festivals open, you’ll notice more police diversions, parking scarcity, and slower movement on main roads.
Even non‑sport events matter. The Delhi High Court case updates, for example, triggered protests that clogged central avenues. While the courtroom drama itself isn’t a traffic issue, the streets around it often become rally points, slowing regular commuters.
All these factors combine to create a perfect storm of traffic chaos. The good news is you can plan smarter.
Check real‑time alerts. Use the IMIM (IMD) website or apps for weather warnings. A red alert means you might need an alternative route or delay your trip.
Use traffic‑monitoring apps. Google Maps, Waze or local traffic portals show live congestion and suggest detours. When a road near IGI is closed, these tools will guide you to the next open lane.
Plan ahead for flights. If you’re flying from Delhi‑NCR during heavy rain, arrive at the airport early. Check your airline’s status page for real‑time updates on delays or cancellations.
Consider public transport. Trains and metro can bypass flooded streets. During the recent Punjab floods, many commuters switched to rail to avoid road bottlenecks.
Stay flexible. If a major event is happening, expect extra traffic. Adjust your departure time by 30‑45 minutes or look for parking on the outskirts and use a rideshare to reach the venue.
Traffic chaos won’t disappear overnight, but staying informed and flexible can save you time and stress. Keep an eye on weather alerts, use reliable navigation tools, and give yourself a buffer when big events are on the calendar. Safe travels!
In Mirzapur, chaos ensued when a fish transport truck overturned after a tire burst, dispersing fish across the highway. The incident caused traffic delays and led to a local frenzy as residents rushed to grab the unexpected bounty. Although no injuries occurred, the scene turned hectic until authorities stepped in to restore order.