Rs 10 lakh compensation for kin of those who drowned due to heavy rain: Delhi govt

Delhi Rains: The Delhi government will compensate families with Rs 10 lakh each for the tragic drownings during heavy rainfall on Friday.

Atishi, the minister, issued an official directive to the revenue department following the deaths of seven people reported on June 28 due to extreme rainfall. The city recorded 228mm of rainfall in 24 hours, causing severe flooding and waterlogging in several areas.

The national capital has reported six rain-related deaths on Saturday, bringing the total death toll to 11 in the first two days since the monsoon hit the city.

“It is directed that families of the deceased will receive Rs 10 lakh each,” Atishi said.

“ACS Revenue is instructed to identify the deceased with support from area hospitals and Delhi Police and promptly disburse the compensation on behalf of GNCTD,” she added.

Also Read: Delhi Rains: Six more rain-related deaths, toll reaches 11 in first two days of Monsoon

In a social media update, Atishi noted, “Multiple deaths occurred on June 28 following extreme rainfall of 228mm in 24 hours. Families of the deceased will receive Rs 10 lakh each. Steps are being taken to ensure swift disbursement of this compensation.”

The heavy rains led to various tragic incidents. Two boys drowned in a waterlogged underpass in northwest Delhi’s Badli. In Okhla, a 60-year-old man died after getting stuck with his scooty in a waterlogged underpass. Additionally, three labourers were found dead in the rubble of a collapsed wall at a construction site in Vasant Vihar.

Also Read: Delhi likely to receive heavy rains, IMD issues orange alert

The heavy rainfall caused significant disruptions across the city, with many roads submerged and public transport services severely affected. Authorities are taking strong measures to prevent further waterlogging, with additional pumps deployed and 24-hour monitoring through CCTV cameras.

Delhi recorded 228.1 mm of rainfall on the first day of the monsoon, the highest for June since 1936. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert, predicting heavy rainfall for the next two days. The IMD defines moderate rain as 7.6 to 35.5 mm and heavy rain as 64.5 to 124.4 mm in a day. The capital received additional rainfall on Saturday morning, further impacting areas like Rohini and Burari.

Authorities are working around the clock to clear waterlogged areas. Delhi Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena inspected the city’s most severely affected areas, finding drains choked with garbage, debris, and sludge. Measures are being taken to address these issues and prevent further flooding. (With inputs from PTI)