Gurugram Gridlock: 400 Calls in 7 Hours
A heavy spell of rain on Wednesday led to massive traffic chaos in Gurugram, with over 400 distress calls made to the city’s traffic control room in just seven hours. Between 7 am and 2:30 am the next day, residents called for help with waterlogged streets, stranded vehicles, and unsafe conditions across key areas.
Vehicles Stalled, Roads Flooded
Traffic police responded by towing 222 stranded vehicles using 32 cranes. Most of the breakdowns were caused by engines failing in waterlogged areas, with many owners forced to abandon their cars and bikes. Several major junctions were submerged, including Hero Honda Chowk, Iffco Chowk, Subhash Chowk, Sheetla Mata Chowk, and the Pasco traffic signal near Signature Tower.
Sinkhole Adds to Chaos
A significant road collapse on Southern Peripheral Road near Sector 69 added to the mess. A truck fell into the sinkhole caused by incomplete drainage work, leading to major traffic diversions. The driver was rescued safely. As a precaution, police cordoned off the damaged stretch and redirected traffic, affecting routes to Golf Course Road and Sohna Road.
Civic Bodies Clear Blockages
Authorities removed six uprooted trees across the city, including near Medanta Hospital, Z Chowk, and the Gold Souk area. These were cleared swiftly to prevent further congestion. Flooding in underpasses and arterial roads worsened the situation for commuters.
Police Urge Work from Home
Over 70 traffic officers were deployed at key junctions. Police requested private offices and IT companies to allow employees to work from home the following day, to reduce pressure on already overburdened roads.
Residents Frustrated, Demand Action
The incident once again exposed the city’s poor drainage planning and unpreparedness during the monsoon. With heavy rain expected to continue this week, residents are calling for urgent action from the Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority to prevent repeat breakdowns in civic infrastructure.
