Overnight Efforts by Delhi Teams to Prevent Waterlogging During G20 Summit Amid Rains

During the recent rains in Delhi, teams from PWD and NDMC worked throughout the night to ensure there was no waterlogging on roads used for VVIP movement during the G20 summit. Over 1,000 workers and Quick Reaction Teams were deployed for this task.

In the wake of heavy rains that battered Delhi on Saturday, teams from the Public Works Department (PWD) and the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) worked tirelessly overnight to prevent waterlogging on roads earmarked for VVIP movement during the G20 Summit. The two-day event, which concluded on Sunday under India's presidency of this influential bloc, saw a flurry of activities and visits by global leaders.

Unprecedented Preparations Amidst Unfavorable Weather

The relentless downpour posed significant challenges to maintaining smooth functioning of traffic and preventing potential disruptions during this high-profile international event. However, according to NDMC vice chairman Satish Upadhyay, more than 1,000 dedicated NDMC workers and Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) were mobilized throughout Saturday night to ensure key roads designated for use by Heads of States remained clear for their convoys. Between 1 am and 3 am in particular, these teams worked intensively to keep these routes free from obstructions.

G20 Leaders' Visit Amidst Inclement Weather

Despite the inclement weather conditions, various programmes involving G20 leaders went ahead as scheduled. Among other engagements, they visited Rajghat – Mahatma Gandhi's memorial – paying homage to India's iconic freedom fighter. Notably, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak along with his wife Akshata Murty made a visit to the renowned Akshardham temple in Delhi.

Complaints Received During G20 Summit

The Disaster Management Centre received a total of 70 complaints related to minor waterlogging and malfunctioning road lights among others due to heavy rainfall. Of these complaints lodged over Saturday night and Sunday morning until 11 am; 26 were registered on Saturday night while the remaining 44 poured in by Sunday morning. These issues were promptly addressed, ensuring minimal disruption to the G20 Summit proceedings.

In conclusion, the overnight efforts of PWD and NDMC teams played a crucial role in preventing any major waterlogging incidents on VVIP routes during the G20 Summit amidst heavy rains. Their prompt response to complaints ensured minor issues like waterlogging and malfunctioning road lights did not escalate into significant disruptions. The successful conduct of the summit under India's presidency despite unfavorable weather conditions is commendable and reflects well on India's crisis management capabilities.