Continuous rainfall has disrupted normal life in Meerut, causing waterlogging in several areas, traffic congestion, and power supply disruptions. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) weather forecast and local weather experts, intermittent rainfall is expected to continue until July 10, with heavy rain and b winds likely at some locations.
Rain that began on Wednesday continued through Thursday, leading to waterlogging across several parts of the city. A total of 41 mm of rainfall was recorded between Thursday morning and 12 noon, while cumulative rainfall over the previous 24 hours reached 104 mm. Waterlogged roads caused major difficulties for commuters.
Traffic was affected on key routes, including Bachcha Park, Hapur Road and Delhi Road, due to water accumulation. In several locations, floodwater entered houses and shops, while power supply was disrupted in multiple areas.
Following the heavy rainfall, the city's drainage system has once again come under scrutiny. Despite claims by the administration and the municipal corporation, water could not be drained from several locations. Waterlogging was reported at the Municipal Corporation office, the Meerut Development Authority premises and the Collectorate campus.
The pumping system also appeared inadequate during the rainfall, leaving several neighbourhoods waterlogged for hours. Schoolchildren, office commuters and residents carrying out daily activities were among those most affected.
According to Dr. U.P. Shahi, meteorologist at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, intermittent rainfall is likely to continue in Meerut and surrounding areas until July 10. Heavy rainfall accompanied by b winds may occur at some places during this period. Thereafter, weather conditions are expected to remain clear for the following three to four days.
Experts said the rainfall would help reduce temperatures, improve groundwater levels, replenish ponds and reservoirs, and lower air pollution.
District Agriculture Officer Rajeev Kumar Singh said the current rainfall is highly beneficial for kharif season crops. Adequate soil moisture is expected to improve the production of crops such as paddy, maize, pearl millet and sugarcane. While urban waterlogging has caused inconvenience to residents, the rainfall is considered positive for the agricultural sector.
