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Delhi resumes granting industrial consents

July 6, 2025, 3:53 am

Delhi resumes industrial approvals, balancing redevelopment with strict environmental safeguards under Action Plan 2025.

NEW DELHI: In a move to strike a balance between industrial expansion and environmental responsibility, the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) has resumed processing Consent to Establish (CTE) and Consent to Operate (CTO) applications for 25 designated industrial clusters within the national capital.

These industrial clusters, previously awaiting redevelopment approvals under the Master Plan of Delhi 2021 (MPD-2021), can now proceed with operations under enhanced pollution control safeguards. This revival ends the regulatory pause that had stalled such approvals since 2023.

The renewal of the consent process is being led by Cabinet Minister for Industries and Environment, Manjinder Singh Sirsa, who confirmed that the Industries Department has already shared revised redevelopment schedules with the Delhi Development Authority (DDA), allowing planned redevelopment activities in these zones to move forward.

“This is far more than a routine administrative approval—it represents a clear roadmap for establishing cleaner, greener, and fully compliant industries in Delhi,” said Sirsa.
“With the resumption of consent applications, we are ensuring that no industrial unit operates outside the scope of environmental norms. This marks an important milestone under our Environment Action Plan 2025.”

The DPCC will actively monitor and enforce strict compliance with environmental norms, including effluent and wastewater treatment, air and dust emission control systems, plastic and e-waste management, noise pollution mitigation, and the safe handling of hazardous waste.

The minister further emphasised that environmental compliance is not a one-time administrative task but an ongoing process of scrutiny and accountability, ensuring the long-term sustainability of industrial activity.

“This measure facilitates both redevelopment and tighter environmental oversight, sending a clear signal that Delhi’s industrial progress cannot come at the cost of environmental well-being,” Sirsa reiterated.

This step is being widely seen as a determined initiative by the Delhi government to modernise industrial governance, promote redevelopment in line with MPD-2021 guidelines, and address environmental challenges that have long plagued many industrial areas in the city.

With the Environment Action Plan 2025 underway, the revival of CTE and CTO approvals is expected to boost industrial efficiency and productivity while maintaining pollution control and environmental safeguards as a top priority.

Delhi Man Sells Range Rover Dirt Cheap Due to Diesel Ban Rule

July 2, 2025, 6:03 pm

Petrol pumps all over Delhi have now started denying fuel to end-of-life (EoL) vehicles, on orders from the Commission for Air Quality Management. Even though the aim is to curb vehicle emissions in the capital city, this action has caused immense trouble for most car owners, especially those who take good care of their older vehicles.

Take the example of Delhi’s Ritesh Gandotra. He found himself compelled to let go of his diesel-powered luxury SUV due to this rule. Gandotra had an eight-year-old Range Rover, meticulously maintained and driven only 74,000 km since purchase. The SUV remained idle for two years during the Covid lockdown, and by his estimate, still had over 2 lakh km of life left.

Angered by the 10-year diesel vehicle ban in the NCR, Gandotra vented his grievance on a post on X (formerly Twitter), claiming he had no choice but to sell the SUV for a fraction of its value and only to non-NCR buyers. In his now-deleted tweet, he also scolded the exorbitant 45 per cent GST levied on the purchase of new cars as a penalty on sound car ownership and common sense.

Why did he delete his tweet? pic.twitter.com/akrOvP7CvR

— Manjeet Singh (@techiemanjeet) July 2, 2025

Although Gandotra has since taken the post down, it had spread far enough that social media users were able to comment on it. Many supported his opinions on the policy, some of them opining that the government ought to be more reasonable in their approach instead of imposing blanket bans.

This ban on old cars in Delhi requires some modifications. Nobody seems to be happy there, and even elsewhere. I also feel that it is wrong unless govt implement something like offering good money for old cars or no or less taxes on old car owners who want to purchase a new car. Something needs to be done,” somebody posted.

Petrol, diesel ban on old vehicles in Delhi started from yesterday

Polluted Policies and Not Just Polluted Air , right ?

We pay EMIs for 7 years,
Maintain the car like family,
Use it barely 10 years…

And then?
👉 Govt says: “Scrap it.”

No check. No resale. No value.
Just… pic.twitter.com/zxqaA3TD6C

— TheBanker’sMirror (@bankaffairs) July 2, 2025

The controversy follows wider internet backlash against prohibition of old cars. One of the viral posts summed up this anger: “We pay EMIs for 7 years, take care of the car like family, use it for hardly 10 years… And then? The government says, ‘Scrap it.’ No check. No resale. No value. Crushed…just like our savings and dreams.”

My friend from Delhi just called me he was crying. 💔 Today his 10 year old diesel car, loved like a family member, is banned. No fuel. No mercy. Cameras will scan it, fines will fall, it could be towed like trash.
He maintained it like his own blood. That car carried their…

— DANISH MEHR (@DANISH__MEHR) July 1, 2025

Other accounts bring such experiences to light. For example, Varun Vij was compelled to sell his Mercedes-Benz ML350 for just Rs 2.5 lakh under the same policy. Another individual also sold his favorite diesel car, likening it to losing a family member, a feeling that still keeps the fiery debate surrounding these policies going.

Delhi Unveils ‘Sheesh Mahal,’ But Not the One You’re Expecting

July 2, 2025, 4:38 pm

Delhi’s ‘Sheesh Mahal’ officially opened its doors to the public on Wednesday, but this is not the same building infamously linked to former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s controversies.

Located in Shalimar Bagh, Northwest Delhi, this ‘Sheesh Mahal’ is, in fact, a 17th-century palace built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It is renowned for its beautiful mirror work and bold Mughal-style architecture. The palace is part of a larger Mughal garden complex and has recently faced extensive restoration works.

This same structure was also the blueprint for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)’s jibe at Arvind Kejriwal’s official bungalow at 9, Flag Staff Road. The building was referred to as ‘Sheesh Mahal’ by the BJP and a controversial poll issue during the 2025 Assembly elections, considering its reported ‘luxurious’ refurbishments.

आज मुख्यमंत्री श्रीमती रेखा गुप्ता ने केंद्रीय संस्कृति एवं पर्यटन मंत्री श्री गजेंद्र सिंह शेखावत, उपराज्यपाल श्री विनय कुमार सक्सेना एवं सांसद श्री प्रवीण खंडेलवाल के साथ शालीमार बाग स्थित पुनर्स्थापित ‘मध्यकालीन शीश महल’ का उद्घाटन किया।

‘शीश महल’ के संरक्षण एवं पुनरुद्धार का… pic.twitter.com/8Ixx6mpR6D

— CMO Delhi (@CMODelhi) July 2, 2025

Following the inauguration of the refurbished Sheesh Mahal, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta made a remark at the expense of Kejriwal: “He had created a Sheesh Mahal for himself to feel comfortable, now this government has constructed a Sheesh Mahal for the people. There is the difference. I just want to say that let this Sheesh Mahal be a taller one.”

Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat also dwelled on the importance of the site and said the park, along with Sheesh Mahal, has remained a symbol of pride of Delhi for over four centuries.

Unfortunately, post-independence, apart from a few moments, the successive Delhi governments did not do much to maintain such historical heritage. As such, sites like Shalimar Bagh and its ancient buildings like Sheesh Mahal deteriorated and were almost destroyed. But due to the personal interest shown by the Hon’ble LG and collaborative efforts of the DDA, the restoration work done has actually brought back the splendor and grandeur of the park,” he said.

10-Year-Old Boy Killed by Father in Delhi for Wanting to Play in Rain

June 30, 2025, 1:29 am

A 10-year-old boy was reportedly stabbed to death by his father on Sunday afternoon after a fight over playing in the rain in the Sagarpur area of southwest Delhi.

Father in Custody; Murder Case Registered

The accused, identified as a 40-year-old daily-wage labourer, has been taken into custody and a case of murder has been filed, news agency PTI quoted police officers as saying.

Police reported a PCR call received by the Dada Dev Hospital around 1.30 pm for the admission of a child who had been stabbed by his father, allegedly.

The doctors at the hospital declared the boy brought dead, the police reported.

Victim Lived with Father and Siblings

The boy resided with his father and three siblings in a one-room rented house at Mohan Block, Sagarpur, according to the police statement.

“His mother had passed away a few years ago, and the children were being looked after solely by the father,” the statement read.

Dispute Over Playing in Rain Led to Murder

Initial investigations indicate that the accident happened when the boy was insisting on playing outside in the rain, the report further added.

“His father objected, but the child did not comply. In a fit of rage, the man picked up a kitchen knife and stabbed the boy in the chest,” the statement said.

Father Took Victim to Hospital, But Too Late

The police stated that the accused took the child to the hospital after the accident, but the boy had already died in his injuries. The doctors reported the incident to the police, after which an investigation was initiated.

Crime Weapon Recovered; Further Probe Underway

The crime weapon, a kitchen knife, has been recovered from the home, and the father was arrested, police added.

They further stated that additional investigation is being carried out to identify the entire sequence of events and circumstances behind the crime.

Police are also interviewing neighbors and relatives to learn more about the background.

Victim’s Siblings Demand Justice

The victim’s sister has asked for a severe punishment for their father.

“Today, my brother went outside to play in the rain, but my father objected and ran behind him with a knife. He stabbed him in the chest. I want strict action against my father,” she said, adding that their father would beat them after drinking alcohol.

The brother of the victim stated that he attempted to break up and save him.

“My father was drunk and he was not listening to our pleas. He suddenly stabbed my brother due to which he died. We want action against him,” he said.

Police are also reviewing CCTV footage regarding the incident and will take statements from other witnesses.

Delhi to launch initiatives to honour Guru Tegh Bahadur

June 29, 2025, 4:26 am

Delhi government plans inclusive initiatives to honour Guru Tegh Bahadur’s martyrdom, in November.

NEW DELHI: The newly formed Delhi government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), is preparing to commemorate the Martyrdom Day (Shaheedi Diwas) of Guru Tegh Bahadur this November with a series of meaningful, enduring, and inclusive initiatives. This decision was made during a key meeting chaired by Delhi’s Art and Culture Minister Kapil Mishra and Environment Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa. Senior community leaders and representatives from the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee also attended, offering valuable suggestions for the tribute. Further public consultations and follow-up meetings will be held in the coming weeks to finalise the implementation plan.
The meeting evoked a strong emotional response and a sense of pride among attendees, who praised the government for highlighting Guru Tegh Bahadur’s enduring legacy—a figure revered globally for sacrificing his life in defence of freedom of conscience and belief, a gesture unmatched in human history. Participants also recognised the consistent respect shown by Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards all faiths and communities, which has elevated Guru Sahib’s martyrdom to national prominence.
“This is not just our duty—it is Delhi’s honour,” said Mishra, recalling his earlier visit with Sirsa to the current memorial of Guru Tegh Bahadur located at Singhu Border, New Delhi.
“At the time of our visit, even the lights at the memorial were not functional. It reflected years of disregard by the previous administration. We rectified that immediately. This year, we are not only restoring the memorial but also launching a daily light and sound show, founding a Centre for Martyrdom Studies, and ensuring that Guru Sahib’s life story is integrated into school curricula to teach children about his legacy.”

Delhi Braces for Heavy Rain Tomorrow, IMD Issues Yellow Alert

June 23, 2025, 3:00 am

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has sounded a yellow alert for Delhi on Monday, June 23, as light to moderate rain with thunder and winds of 30 to 40 kilometers per hour are predicted to sweep the national capital tomorrow.

Temperature and Humidity Levels Drop Ahead of Rains

At present, the maximum temperature in Delhi was 36.2 degrees Celsius, which is 1.3 degrees less than the season’s average. The lowest temperature was 28.4 degrees Celsius, and relative humidity came down to 70 per cent at 5.30 pm at Safdarjung.

Second Yellow Alert in Two Days for the Capital

This is the second yellow alert issued by IMD this weekend after it issued the first one yesterday when numerous parts of south, south-east, and west Delhi experienced showers with winds gusting up to 30–40 km/h.

Air Quality Satisfactory, Monsoon Likely from Wednesday in Delhi

There is a prediction of light to moderate rain and thunderstorms with lightning and gusty winds in later periods today, air quality index at 68, classified as ‘Satisfactory’, measured at Lodhi Road, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).

Monsoon to Reach Delhi by June 24: IMD Forecast

From Wednesday onwards, Delhi is likely to clear the way for the long-awaited monsoon arrival, following prolonged days of scorching heat, as it is predicted to witness thunderstorms with lightning throughout the day, as per IMD’s local forecast.

IMD had reported earlier today that the southwest monsoon would reach Delhi, Chandigarh and areas of Haryana, western UP, Punjab, and Jammu and Kashmir within the next two days, i.e. by June 24.

IndiGo Flight Returns to Delhi After Facing Technical Glitch

June 19, 2025, 11:38 am

An IndiGo plane en route to Leh from Delhi was compelled to turn back to the Indira Gandhi International Airport on Thursday after a technical glitch rendered it unsafe to land at the high-altitude destination.

The Airbus A320, flight 6E 2006, had been airborne for more than two hours when it turned back, according to data from flight tracking website Flightradar24.com. The company confirmed that the plane is currently undergoing required maintenance work before it can go back to normal operations.

In a statement, an IndiGo spokesperson stated, “IndiGo flight 6E 2006 from Delhi to Leh on 19 June 2025, returned to its point of departure because of a technical problem which resulted in operational limitations to land at Leh. According to procedure, the pilot flew back to Delhi.”

In order to cause minimum inconvenience, IndiGo has pressed an alternate aircraft to transport the passengers to Leh without any delay.

This is the latest in a series of recent technical problems experienced by airlines. In another case on Thursday, a SpiceJet flight from Tirupati to Hyderabad returned to its point of departure soon after takeoff.

Flight SG 2696, which took off at 6:19 am and was expected to arrive in Tirupati by 7:40 am, turned back to Rajiv Gandhi International Airport for a technical snag.

Only the day before, another IndiGo flight, one from Delhi to Raipur was in the news after passengers were left waiting on board for about 40 minutes after a landing. The door of the aircraft didn’t open on schedule because of what the airline called a small technical glitch.

That flight is said to have had former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel and Raipur Mayor Meenal Choubey on board.

Heavy Rain, Waterlogging Cripple Delhi Traffic; IGI Airport’s Terminal 1 Flooded | Watch

June 17, 2025, 11:05 pm

Rain and waterlogging in certain areas of Delhi and neighboring cities such as Haryana’s Gurugram, Uttar Pradesh’s Noida caused traffic congestion on Tuesday night when the rain persisted during rush hours.

Waterlogging Reported at IGI Airport and Across Delhi

Internal visuals from Terminal 1 of Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport indicated waterlogging following heavy rain in Delhi.

VIDEO | Delhi Rains: Water enters IGI Airport Terminal 1 as heavy rain lashes the capital. Inside visuals

(Source: Third Party)#RainAlert #DelhiRains

(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/J2nJjfxeJ2

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 17, 2025

The rain caused knee-deep waterlogging in a few places such as the underpass opposite Delhi Cantonment, Zakhira Underpass, Pul Prahladpurr, ITO, and Delhi Najafgarh Road and Delhi Rohtak Road, impacting road movement.

Key Roads Affected by Heavy Traffic Amidst Rain

Some of the roads that experienced heavy traffic included a portion of National Highway 48, from Dhaula Kuan towards the airport and Gurugram.

An underpass near the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, en route Dwarka, was also noticed heavily waterlogged among others. Rain caused waterlogging at Delhi’s Mahipalpur bypass underpass.

Flight Operations Disrupted Due to Bad Weather and Heavy Rain

Besides road snarls, the bad weather in Delhi-NCR also caused 12 flight diversions on Tuesday.

In a passenger Advisory at 3:35 pm on Tuesday, Delhi Airport stated flight operations are likely to be affected considering the bad weather conditions from 15:15 hours. Delhi Airport requested passengers to call respective airlines for updated flight schedules.

Delhi and surrounding cities such as Noida, Ghaziabad and Gurugram experienced pleasant weather on Tuesday with cloudy conditions and rain, in significant relief from the hot weather that National Capital Region and other regions of North India were experiencing.

IMD Records Rainfall and Wind Speed

IMD reports 10 mm rain at Safdarjung weather station, 5 mm at Lodhi Road, 41 mm at Pusa, 15 mm at Narayana, and 23 mm at Ayanagar on Tuesday.

Winds of 35-40kmph were seen at the Palam and Safdarjung stations between 2.30 pm and 3 pm and recently at 6.30 pm.

The highest temperature in Delhi also at 36.2 degrees Celsius was 3.8 notches less than the season average and 28 degrees Celsius for the low, 1.5 degrees above normal.

Administrative delays stall cloud seeding trials in Delhi

June 15, 2025, 2:40 am

The cloud seeding process will be overseen by IIT Kanpur. Delhi government’s role is limited to funding.

NEW DELHI: The cloud seeding trials in Delhi—originally scheduled for late May or the first week of June—have been delayed. A source within the Delhi Environment Department informed The Sunday Guardian that the department is currently awaiting no-objection certificates (NOCs) from various other agencies before it can authorise IIT Kanpur to proceed with the trials. Notably, the entire cloud seeding process—from planning and execution to providing aircraft, chemicals, and managing logistics—will be overseen by IIT Kanpur.

The Delhi government’s role is limited to funding the project. While the technical groundwork has already been completed, the next step hinges on receiving the necessary clearances. A total of 13 NOCs are required from several key agencies, including the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and the Airports Authority of India, among others. Only after these departments grant their approvals can both the government and IIT Kanpur move forward with the implementation of the trials. It is important to note that air pollution in Delhi reached alarming levels during the last winter season, placing the city at the top of national and global pollution charts.

According to data from the Central Pollution Control Board, Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) had crossed the 450 mark—falling into the ‘severe-plus’ category. In response to the worsening situation, the newly formed BJP-led Delhi government approved the cloud seeding project in a cabinet meeting. The total project cost is estimated at Rs 3.21 crore, which includes Rs 2.75 crore allocated for conducting five separate cloud seeding trials (Rs 55 lakh per trial), along with a one-time setup cost of Rs 66 lakh for equipment calibration, logistics, and preliminary preparations.

As per the plan, Delhi will conduct five cloud seeding operations on different days, with each session lasting approximately one to one-anda-half hours. The scheduling of these trials will depend heavily on the availability of suitable cloud cover. Officials involved in the project had earlier stated that if favourable weather conditions prevail, all five trials might be executed within a week or spaced out with one or two days in between.

IIT Kanpur, which is spearheading the project, will determine the specific locations for these experiments based on a range of scientific, logistical, and safety considerations.

Due to airspace restrictions and safety concerns, areas such as Lutyens’ Delhi and the vicinity of Indira Gandhi International Airport have been ruled out as trial sites. Consequently, the cloud seeding operations will be conducted in the outer areas of Delhi, where meteorological conditions will also be a determining factor.

According to officials, during each trial, an aircraft will be airborne for 60 to 90 minutes, with the final schedule expected to be announced soon. The first trial is now likely to be held by the end of June, depending on how quickly the required approvals are obtained. Cloud seeding, often referred to as artificial rain, is a weather modification technique in which certain chemical substances are released into clouds to trigger precipitation, provided that other atmospheric conditions are conducive.

Delhi works on flood control ahead of monsoon

June 15, 2025, 2:01 am

The BJP government has ramped up flood control efforts with advanced monitoring ahead of monsoon in Delhi

NEW DELHI: The newly established Bharatiya Janata Party-led government in Delhi has gone into active mode, working effectively to prepare the capital for the upcoming monsoon season. Every year, heavy rains disrupt daily life in the national capital, leading to widespread waterlogging that hampers the city’s functioning and causes severe inconvenience to its residents.

Tragically, last year’s monsoon even claimed several lives due to flooding-related incidents. Determined to avoid a repeat of such scenarios, the new administration has acted swiftly and decisively to get Delhi monsoon-ready. As part of these proactive measures, Delhi’s Minister of Irrigation and Flood Control, Parvesh Sahib Singh, conducted an inspection of the modern control room of the Irrigation and Flood Control (I&FC) Department located in Shastri Nagar. This visit was part of a broader high-level review of the city’s flood preparedness and drainage system readiness ahead of the monsoon.

While addressing the media during his visit, the Minister emphasised that the government has adopted a war-footing approach to flood control efforts. “This is our I&FC Control Room, which continuously monitors all 77 major drains across Delhi and keeps track of the water level of the Yamuna River around the clock. It analyses rainfall drainage flow, the volume of water released upstream, and the downstream consequences,” he stated. Singh further added that the control room will remain fully functional 24 hours a day, seven days a week, throughout the entire monsoon period. It will serve as the central hub for real-time coordination and emergency decision-making.

Starting June 15, when monsoon activity is expected to intensify, the control room will also host officials from the police, SDM offices, and other crucial departments to ensure prompt and collaborative responses during flood-related emergencies. During the review session, senior departmental officials briefed the Minister that nearly 90% of the cleaning work for the city’s 76 major drains has already been completed. The remaining portion is undergoing final clean-up operations. Advanced machinery, GPS tracking tools, and on-site inspection teams are being used to ensure that no clogs occur, thus significantly reducing the threat of water accumulation and flooding in the city.

The Minister directed that daily, real-time progress reports on the drain-cleaning operations be updated and maintained in the control room without fail. He also carefully examined the surveillance setup, warning systems, and multi-agency coordination protocols at the facility to ensure the systems are fully prepared to handle emergencies. Reinforcing the government’s commitment, the Minister remarked, “Our objective is not just to manage heavy rainfall but to rebuild the trust of the people of Delhi that this year, the situation will be different. We are not limiting our efforts to plans on paper— work is actively happening on the ground. Citizens will witness the change.

This is not merely a promise, but a firm commitment.” The I&FC Department has also operationalised live monitoring systems and alert mechanisms to guarantee a quick and efficient response in case of emergency situations, with a particular focus on the prompt evacuation of low-lying and floodprone areas, if necessary. Given the extensive waterlogging and urban flooding experienced in recent monsoons, this comprehensive, all-hands-on-deck strategy represents a significant departure from past practices. It reflects the government’s shift towards a more technologically equipped, datadriven model of governance in managing Delhi’s drainage and flood-control infrastructure.

Delhi Police Bust Fake Currency Racket Smuggling Notes via Bangladesh; Courier Caught with Rs. 4 Lakh FICN

June 8, 2025, 12:34 pm

A major fake currency racket with international links has been busted by Delhi Police. A courier was nabbed with high-quality FICN worth Rs. 4 lakh, leading to revelations of a cross-border operation routed through Bihar.

The Delhi Police Special Cell successfully confiscated Rs. 4 lakh worth of counterfeit Indian currency notes (FICN) in ₹500 denominations, making it the first major counterfeit bust of the year. The operation found a larger interstate scam running throughout India, with roots in Bangladesh.

The accused, 22-year-old Naushad Alam from Bettiah, Bihar, was arrested near the Vijay Ghat Bus Stand while trying to deliver the fake notes. According to Additional CP Pramod Kushwaha, the Special Cell had been tracking the racket for four months following credible intelligence on cross-state FICN circulation.
Bangladesh to Bihar to Delhi: A Smuggling Trail

Alam was allegedly acting on behalf of a larger network that funneled counterfeit notes through the Indo-Bangladesh border. He reportedly bought the fake currency at Rs. 200 per Rs. 500 note and sold it to contacts at Rs. 300. The young courier admitted to already delivering multiple consignments across Delhi, Bihar, and the NCR region.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Amit Kaushik revealed that the racket is believed to be funded by profits reinvested in arms and other illegal trades. Alam’s involvement began as a result of financial difficulty and coercion by an unknown handler who is now being investigated.

Authorities are now tracing connections to other operatives and expanding the probe to dismantle the full network. The case highlights a persistent national security threat from cross-border currency infiltration.

Covid Strikes Delhi Again: 3rd Death Amid Rising Cases

June 5, 2025, 5:09 pm

Delhi has reported its third Covid-19 death since May 2025, amid a worrying uptick in daily cases. As per the data released by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, the national capital logged 64 new Covid-19 cases in the past 24 hours, pushing the total number of active cases to 457.

The deceased has been identified as a 22-year-old woman with a history of serious medical conditions, including Pulmonary Koch’s (a form of tuberculosis), lower respiratory tract infection, Covid-19 pneumonia, and shock. She reportedly succumbed to Type 1 respiratory failure, a condition often associated with critical respiratory illnesses.

This death comes just days after Delhi had shown a slight dip in daily Covid cases. On Tuesday, the case count had dropped to 393 from 483 the previous day. However, Wednesday witnessed a fresh spike, marking a concerning trend in the city’s ongoing battle with the virus.

Hospitals on Alert

In response to the rising number of infections, the Delhi government has issued an advisory to all hospitals and healthcare facilities, urging them to enhance preparedness. The advisory includes directives to ensure the availability of hospital beds, oxygen supply, essential medicines, and Covid-19 vaccines.

Officials have emphasized the need for vigilance, especially in light of emerging variants and the return of sporadic cases in other states as well. Hospitals have also been instructed to maintain functional isolation wards and strengthen testing facilities to detect and contain infections at the earliest.

39 Recoveries Offer Slight Relief

Meanwhile, 39 patients were reported to have recovered or been discharged on Tuesday, offering some relief. Still, health authorities are keeping a close watch on trends and transmission patterns.

The new surge in cases, though still not alarming, highlights the fact that we should still be cautious and take health measures in advance because the city is going through ta rainy spurt, which is generally related to a rise in respiratory infections. Delhi residebts are still advised to follow necessary precautions like maintaining hand hygiene and wearing masks in crowded places.

Delhi Weather Alert: Rain, Storms, 70 km/hr Winds Expected

May 29, 2025, 12:23 pm

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has upgraded the weather warning for Delhi to orange on Friday, citing the possibility of rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds of up to 70 km/hr. “People must be cautious and ready for possibly disruptive weather,” the IMD warned.

An orange alert, the second-highest in IMD’s alert system, suggests the likelihood of sizeable impact and disruption due to harsh weather conditions.

Rainfall and Weather Outlook

Though there was no alert issued on Thursday morning, the IMD forecasted light to moderate rain. “There can be some very light to light rain chances now. On Thursday, that kind of rain activity will continue, and the intensity is still higher on Friday,” an IMD official stated.

Delhi has already seen a record 186.4 mm of rainfall in May, the most ever recorded for the month. The last record was in May 2008 at 165 mm. To put that in context, the May average rainfall for Delhi is only 30.7 mm.

Earlier during the week, the city witnessed light showers on Monday, while heavy rain with thunderstorms on Sunday resulted in problems, ranging from waterlogging to power cuts, flight delays, and fumigated trees. These occurrences have led the capital’s readiedness for the approaching monsoon season into fresh question.

While Delhi is already under an orange alert, surrounding regions such as Gurgaon and Faridabad are not. Based on the IMD, Ghaziabad and Noida can expect light rain and thunderstorm on Friday but have no colour-coded alerts in their respective cities.

Monsoon Advances Ahead of Time

The southwest monsoon is progressing ahead of schedule this year. It usually reaches Delhi by June 27, but the IMD has yet to announce an arrival date for the capital. “We are keeping a close watch on the progress,” an IMD official stated.

The monsoon arrived early over Kerala on May 24, a week earlier than its usual date of June 1. Mumbai too experienced an early monsoon arrival on May 26, far earlier than its usual date of June 11.

May has been especially severe for Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), with five major storms so far. These storms have resulted in at least 12 deaths, resulting from accidents such as collapses of houses, electrocution, and toppling of trees.

Delhi Techie Gets 700% Salary Hike in a Year, From Rs. 5.5 LPA to Rs. 45 LPA

May 28, 2025, 2:56 pm

Getting a pay raise is always rewarding—it recognizes your hard work, reaffirms your worth, and increases motivation and income. But think about getting an incredible 700% raise in just one year, particularly in the current competitive employment market. Unbelievable? For one techie in Delhi, this was a dream come true recently.

Devesh, a technocrat, shared his incredible success story on X. He shared that he started his career with IBM for a salary package of Rs 5.5 lakh per year. Within a year, he received a new offer for a salary of Rs 45 lakh per year.

“I began my full-time profession a year ago at IBM with a CTC of Rs 5.5 lakh per year, and I now have an offer of more than Rs 45 LPA CTC in hand within a year,” he wrote in his update, terming it a “dream” fulfilled for anyone from the middle class.

His case attracted a lot of attention online, and users bombarded him with inquiries on how he had gained so much growth in such a short time. Answering the interest, Devesh explained his view on early life decisions. “I am not a seasoned individual to offer advice, but 1 advice I offer here is ‘in the beginning of your career, prioritize job over money. If you’re not receiving the good deal, simply go in low and work so so hard that you make a huge leap,'” he said.

Never mentioned it but tbh, I still sometimes think I am still in a dream, bcoz I started my full time career last year at IBM with just a CTC of 5.5 LPA, and now having an offer of over 45 LPA CTC in hand within an year, for a middle class guy like me, it’s still a dream❤️.

— Devesh (@theywayshhh) May 26, 2025

Allaying fears of suspicion regarding the huge jump in his salary, he explained, “For those who are wondering how to simply go from CTC, like Rs 5–6 LPA to Rs 45 LPA, the MAANG or FAANG companies set their base pay and CTC. So, it’s all the same. They will not assess you on the basis of what you are earning earlier.”

Those people who have a doubt like how is it possible to directly jump from CTC like 5-6 LPA to 45 LPA something, so basically the MAANG or FAANG (whatever) companies have their base pay and ctc preset, so it’s similar for everyone, they won’t judge you on your previous pays.

— Devesh (@theywayshhh) May 27, 2025

The post elicited a variety of responses on social media. While numerous others were impressed and congratulated him, some questioned the likelihood of such growth without powerful connections or insider backing.

One user said, “Inspirational. Congratulations to many more in the future.” Another said, “An impressive leap in such a short time. Your journey is a testament to what relentless focus and talent can achieve.”

However, others questioned whether the jump was realistic. “What have you done in particular to achieve high growth tbh? Don’t say hard work, dedication. What in skill-wise?” said one. Another commented, “This is not normal, and whatever is not normal is not possible.”

A questioning commentator added, “Within one year, no one can achieve a 700 per cent increase. Unrealistic.”

To put this into perspective, as per a report by Business Standard, the average salary increase anticipated in India for 2025 stands at about 9.4%, which makes Devesh’s jump that much more exceptional—and contentious.

Feels Like Shimla’: Delhites React to Heavy Rain, Thunderstorm in Delhi-NCR

May 25, 2025, 5:01 am

As torrential rain and thunderstorms swept across Delhi-NCR late Saturday evening, social media was filled with sensational pictures and comments of Delhites calling the weather ‘unprecedented’ and akin to ‘Shimla’ as the gusty winds provided much-needed relief from the sweltering summer heat.

Social Media Reactions: Descriptions of ‘Unprecedented’ Weather

While the citizens of Delhi were glad to see the rain and winds in light of the heatwaves that hit the national capital, the attendant thunder, lightning, and strong gusts of wind made the experience a bit more intense.

Rain, wind, and a sudden chill in Delhi feels more like Shimla than the capital today.#DelhiRains pic.twitter.com/whHEcvASEj

— Mohit Chauhan (@mohitlaws) May 24, 2025

“Dear weather gods, if you want to make it rain in Delhi, you can do soo without the scary storms that sounds like pralay,” posted a person on X.

Dear weather gods, if you want to make it rain in Delhi, you can do soo without the scary storms that sounds like pralay

Thankyou.

— K (@buttercupmoney) May 24, 2025

Another posted, “Mad rain in Delhi rn, my backyard is fighting for survival,” summarizing the devastation wreaked in houses and gardens throughout the city.

Gurugram Residents Experience the Storm of the Decade

One of the social media users in Gurugram referred to it as the “highly awaited storm of the decade and prayed for all the safety in the midst of the intense storm.”

“Much anticipated, storm of the decade! Captured this in sector 57, #Gurgaon. Winds howling.. crazy rain intensity of 3mm/min, 25-30mm in various areas in no time! A similar storm is affecting rest of #Delhi #Noida #Ghaziabad #Faridabad as well. Praying for everyone’s safety,” he tweeted.

Much anticipated, storm of the decade!
Captured this in sector 57, #Gurgaon
Winds howling.. crazy rain intensity of 3mm/min, 25-30mm in various areas in no time!
Similar storm affecting rest of #Delhi #Noida #Ghaziabad #Faridabad as well.
Praying for everyone’s safety.… pic.twitter.com/O7qRrdACGS

— Weatherman Navdeep Dahiya (@navdeepdahiya55) May 24, 2025

“Intense rains and winds with lightning in East Delhi. Temp dropped from 31.8°C to 23.1°C in just 30 mins. Rainfall accumulation: 29mm till now,” another user wrote.

Intense rains and winds with lightning in East Delhi.

Temp dropped from 31.8°C to 23.1°C in just 30 mins.
Rainfall accumulation: 29mm till now#DelhiRains will continue for next few hours pic.twitter.com/78CS4gMwzB

— IndiaMetSky Weather (@indiametsky) May 24, 2025

Relief from the Heat: Delhi-NCR Experiences Intense Rain Storm

Delhi-NCR experienced a bout of heavy rain and gale-force winds late on Saturday night, providing relief from the blistering summer heat.

The IMD suggested citizens remain indoors and not seek shelter under trees. “Residents are suggested to take suitable precautions. Stay indoors, avoid open grounds, and don’t seek shelter under trees,” a weather office advisory stated.

The national capital had a minimum temperature of 28.4 degrees Celsius, 1.7 degrees less than the season’s average, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said.

‘You Came to Beg?’: Delhi Influencer Hits Back at Karnataka’s Language Intolerance

May 22, 2025, 5:14 pm

In the face of increasing instances of language-related altercations in Karnataka, a Delhi-based influencer has issued a public call encouraging job aspirants to look towards the capital city as a more cosmopolitan option for employment.

Madhur, who is famous on the internet as @ThePlacardGuy, posted a picture of an autorickshaw in Karnataka with a threatening message for non-Kannada people. The placard displayed the following message: “You are in Karnataka, learn Kannada. Don’t show your attitude, you f**r. You come to beg here.”

In response to the message, Madhur posted on social media, “I’m saying it again, come to Delhi, and don’t use Hindi if you don’t know or wish, use English or sign language or whatever suits.” He pointed out that newcomers would not be imposed on in language in Delhi, as has been reportedly done to some migrants in Karnataka.

He also went on to say, “And of course nobody will tell you that you have come to Delhi and begged. We understand if you came to Delhi for work, it is because Delhiwallas were not competent enough for this work; therefore, somebody who was more competent at this job than a Delhiite got this work/started this business. No resentment for not speaking Hindi, welcome!”

I’m once again saying, Come to Delhi, and don’t speak in Hindi if you don’t know/want, speak in English or sign language or whatever convenient. Nobody will be rude to you for not talking in Hindi. And certainly nobody would tell you that you came to delhi to beg. We know if you… pic.twitter.com/JeDvtiYgDS

— Madhur (@ThePlacardGuy) May 21, 2025

The influencer also highlighted the mutual economic benefits of migration, pointing out that people coming to Delhi help sustain local livelihoods. “It’s not Delhi who’s giving you employment, bread, money, it’s two-way. You’re giving jobs to Delhiites also, the cabbies, sabzi walas, delivery boys, the owner of your house, everybody is earning their living due to you. So, we’re grateful that you decided to come to Delhi. Enjoy your stay here! Cheers,” he finished.

Madhur’s post gained a lot of mixed reactions online, with some agreeing with his universal message while others opposed his views.

This follows the outbreak of a viral video in which a State Bank of India staff member at Bengaluru was heard engaged in a heated argument with a customer on grounds of language. The refusal by the official to communicate in Kannada was termed “strongly condemnable” by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The SBI branch manager was later transferred from the office.

Heavy Rain and Hailstorm in Delhi Disrupt Air Traffic, 10 Flights Diverted and 50 Delayed

May 21, 2025, 11:35 pm

A powerful dust storm followed by rain and hail swept through Delhi on Wednesday evening, leading to massive disruptions at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport.

Over 50 Flights Delayed, 10 Diverted

Officials reported that at least 10 flights were diverted to nearby airports, including Jaipur and Mumbai, while over 50 flights experienced delays between 7:45 pm and 8:45 pm. “At least 10 flights were diverted, mainly to Jaipur. One flight was also diverted to Mumbai,” said an airport official. The disruption was attributed to wind shear, a condition where strong winds blow in the opposite direction, making it difficult for flights to take off or land safely.

#TravelAdvisory

Rain and thunderstorms may disrupt flights to/from Delhi this evening.

Please check your flight status here https://t.co/5vemTROi62 before heading to the airport and allow extra time for your journey.

— Air India (@airindia) May 21, 2025

Temperature Plunges, Storm Peaks at 74 km/hr

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), wind speeds peaked at 74 km/hr around 8 pm. The Palam area witnessed a steep temperature drop from 37°C at 7:30 pm to 23°C by 8:30 pm. The IMD recorded rainfall totals of 12.1mm at Safdarjung, 2.1mm at Palam, 13.5mm at Mayur Vihar, and 5mm at Pitampura by 8:30 pm.

Aircraft Suffers Damage, Makes Emergency Landing

Amid the storm, a Delhi-to-Srinagar flight encountered turbulence and was forced to make an emergency landing at Srinagar airport around 6:30 pm. The aircraft, carrying more than 220 passengers, suffered damage to its nose, visuals of which later circulated online.

Airlines Issue Travel Alerts

Air India issued a travel advisory on X, urging passengers to check flight schedules and allow extra time to reach the airport. Indigo also reported weather-related delays in Delhi, Chandigarh, and Kolkata, asking passengers to monitor their flight status before departing for the airport.

IMD Had Forecast Thunderstorm Risk

The IMD had earlier predicted a hot and humid Wednesday with the likelihood of a dust storm and thunderstorm later in the day. Wind speeds were expected to touch 50 km/hr. A similar weather pattern is expected on Friday, with gusty winds likely to reach 50 km/hr. No storms are forecast for Thursday.

Cyclonic Circulation Triggered Intense Storm

IMD scientist Krishna Mishra attributed the severe weather to a cyclonic circulation over Haryana, which was part of an east-west trough stretching from Punjab to Bangladesh in the lower troposphere. “Moisture feed was taking place to this trough from both the Arabian Sea as well as the Bay of Bengal,” Mishra explained.

Trees Uprooted, Traffic Disrupted

The storm also caused several trees to fall, leading to major traffic snarls. A senior traffic police official said movement was heavily impacted on Mathura Road. “The carriageway from Neela Gumbad to Ashram was choked as a tree fell in the middle of the road. Another tree fell on Teen Murti Marg. Nobody was injured,” the officer confirmed.

The sudden storm not only disrupted flight operations but also brought an unexpected cooldown, traffic chaos, and public alerts, underlining the need for preparedness ahead of the upcoming monsoon season.

Delhi Chokes Under Sudden Dust Storm, IMD Traces Source to Pakistan

May 16, 2025, 3:44 pm

Air pollution is nothing new in Delhi-NCR, but a dense haze and lowered visibility during mid-May took locals by surprise. On May 15, people woke up to a veil of dust covering the sky, which resulted in poor air quality and restricted visibility. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) explained this sudden occurrence as overnight winds carrying dust.

IMD Explains Dust-Driven Haze

As per IMD, gusty winds between 30 and 40 kmph blew over Delhi-NCR on Wednesday evening as a system of clouds passed over the area. These winds picked up fine dust particles from the surface into the lower atmosphere, significantly impairing visibility. PTI said visibility at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport plunged sharply from 4,500 meters to 1,200 meters between 10 pm and 11:30 pm.

Although wind speeds slowed to between 3 and 7 kmph later, they were not strong enough to disperse the dust, which worsened the air quality. Visibility across Safdarjung and Palam airports remained between 1,200 and 1,500 meters. However, as dawn approached, a 10 kmph westerly breeze helped improve conditions slightly, pushing visibility at Palam up to 1,500 meters, as reported by The Indian Express.

Air pollution was never this bad during AAP regime at this time of the year. https://t.co/k6aBdmngGt

— Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) May 15, 2025

Pakistani Dust Behind Delhi’s Dirty Air?

IMD said the unexpected dust storm had its roots in North Pakistan. Dust particles with ‘strong lower-level westerly winds’ from Punjab and Haryana moved into Delhi-NCR, causing air quality to plummet sharply. The Air Quality Index (AQI) plummeted into the ‘poor’ level on May 15, following weeks of staying within the ‘moderate’ band. The AQI was registered at 135 in Delhi previously in the day before the dust inflow moved eastward, finally restoring visibility. Visibility at Palam had improved to 4,000 meters, IMD reported, after the dust started settling.

Political Blame Game On Spiking AQI

The dramatic drop in Delhi’s air quality prompted a war of words between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).

Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also responded on social media, arguing that pollution “was never this bad” during his tenure at this time of the year. Following him, AAP leader Atishi Marlena also stated, “AQI in Delhi had never been this high in May.” She referred to Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) data to say that from 2022 through 2024, AQI on May 15 never went beyond 243.

Delhi Tests Air Raid Siren Amid Rising India-Pakistan Tensions

May 9, 2025, 4:25 pm

The Directorate of Civil Defence carried out a test of an air raid siren placed atop the multi-storey PWD building located at ITO in Delhi on Friday. The siren test began at 3:00 pm and lasted for about 15 to 20 minutes.

Officials explained that this was a routine test and advised people not to panic during the exercise. The timing of the test is significant, as it comes during a period of heightened tension between India and Pakistan.

Siren Installation in High-Rises Across Delhi

Delhi’s PWD Minister Parvesh Verma said that the city has started setting up these sirens on tall buildings as a safety measure. He explained, “The work of installing sirens in Delhi has started. Sirens will be installed on all the high-rise buildings in Delhi. Its range is 8 kilometres. Starting tonight, 40-50 more sirens will be installed in high-rise buildings in Delhi. We will run it in case of any emergency. We can run it from a single command centre…” This move is part of the government’s emergency preparedness plan, especially in the wake of increasing hostilities along the India-Pakistan border.

#WATCH | Delhi: Testing of air raid sirens installed at PWD (Public Works Department) headquarters in ITO was conducted; Delhi PWD Minister Parvesh Verma was also present at the spot pic.twitter.com/bWzhnZuSVI

— ANI (@ANI) May 9, 2025

Tensions Escalate After Pahalgam Terror Attack

The siren test follows the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, where 26 people lost their lives. Most of the victims were tourists. Since then, both countries have reported missile strikes and cross-border shelling, intensifying the situation further.

Security Stepped Up Across Delhi

In response to the growing threat, authorities in Delhi have increased security at key locations. Additional police and paramilitary personnel were deployed at important government buildings, crowded public spaces, and vital services like water and sewage treatment plants.

A senior police official shared that security arrangements have been strengthened at places such as government offices, courts, and foreign embassies. Vigilance has also increased at markets, railway stations, Metro stops, malls, and parks.

Police on High Alert

Due to the tense situation, the Delhi Police cancelled all staff leave starting Thursday night. An officer said, “Night vigil has been intensified. We will deploy extra force in every sensitive area.”

To ensure better coordination, special commissioners of each police zone are meeting with their deputy commissioners to evaluate the current security plans. A police source confirmed, “All the DCPS are keeping a close watch on law and order in their jurisdiction. Delhi Police is prepared to tackle any situation.”

Delhi Govt Cancels Leaves, Gurugram Shuts Schools as India-Pak Tensions Rise

May 8, 2025, 11:38 pm

As tensions rose between India and Pakistan, the Delhi government on Thursday cancelled leaves of all its employees, stating the necessity for preparedness in emergency response. A government order from the Services Department, as reported by PTI, said: “No leave will be granted to any official of Delhi government till further orders given the prevailing situation and preparedness for any emergency.”

Preventive steps were intensified in neighboring states as well. All schools within Haryana’s Gurugram were directed to close down, and students’ families were being directly messaged by institutions. Likewise, Punjab’s authorities had issued a three-day shutdown order for all learning institutions, schools, colleges, and universities.

India Gate is being completely evacuated and no one is allowed to stop or remain in the vicinity of the monument.

Take a look:

? BREAKING NEWS

India Gate has been COMPLETELY EVACUATED.

NO one is allowed to STOP around India Gate. pic.twitter.com/gs8Kq3bNiX

— Megh Updates ?™ (@MeghUpdates) May 8, 2025

District magistrates throughout Delhi held emergency meetings with their respective teams to evaluate readiness levels in health care and disaster management. Officials indicated that these measures were being taken “in case of any emergency situation.”

India-Pakistan Tensions Escalate

Tensions mounted to record highs on Thursday night following reports of suspected Pakistani drone intrusions into areas of Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan. India’s air defence successfully repelled the aerial threats, prompting immediate precautionary steps like blackouts and air raid siren alerts in various cities. The ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) match in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, was halted midway due to this.

The security crisis broke out a day after India conducted ‘Operation Sindoor’—a series of military operations targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). These operations were conducted in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that took the lives of 26 civilians.

Reports state that Indian forces struck Pakistan’s air defense system early Thursday morning in retaliation against overnight drone and missile attacks supposedly carried out by Pakistan against Indian military installations.

The atmosphere is tense, with both civil and military leaders in India on heightened alert.

Delhi Storm: Mother, 3 Children Killed in House Collapse

May 2, 2025, 1:34 pm

A deadly thunderstorm that ravaged Delhi early on Friday morning killed a 26-year-old woman and her three minor children in the Najafgarh locality. Their house collapsed in Kharkhari Nagar village, Jafarpur Kalan, when a tree fell onto the building, police added. The woman’s husband, who was also trapped, survived the collapse but suffered injuries.

Officiating authorities got a distress signal around 5:26 am, reporting a structural failure at the location. Acting quickly, the personnel from the local police and Delhi Fire Services were quick to reach the spot.

Upon arrival, the rescuers found that a tree had fallen on a room next to a tubewell, causing the building to collapse. “The woman, her three children were recovered from under the rubble while the husband was rescued but injured,” said an officer.

Police have confirmed that the bodies were moved to a city mortuary for postmortem. The investigation into the incident is underway. Deputy commissioner of police (Dwarka) Ankit Singh was unavailable for comment. This story will be updated as soon as his statement is received.

The severe pre-dawn thunderstorm induced mass inconvenience in the national capital. There was extensive waterlogging and jams in several areas of the city. Flight operations at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport were also affected, with a minimum of three flights diverted and more than 100 delayed, as per officials who were briefed on the situation.

IMD Alert: Thunderstorms, Rain Lash Delhi-NCR | WATCH

May 2, 2025, 6:40 am

Severe thunderstorms and early morning rain on Friday, May 2, brought a welcome change in weather for Delhi and its surrounding areas, including Noida, ending a prolonged heatwave spell. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had forecast heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and thunderstorms across Delhi-NCR, issuing a yellow alert for the region.

At 5:19 AM, IMD posted on X, “Severe thunder lightning, squally winds 70-80 kmph, is likely over Delhi during the next two hours.” The heavy downpour caused waterlogging in multiple parts of the capital, inconveniencing early commuters but providing much-needed respite from scorching temperatures.

WATCH THE VIDEO:

#BigBreaking
Delhi and its adjoining cities in the National Capital Region (NCR) received heavy rainfall coupled with gusty winds on Friday Early Morning.

This has already been predicted by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Mercury is likely to remain below the… pic.twitter.com/CErhGRPHd2

— Amit Bhardwaj (@AmmyBhardwaj) May 2, 2025

Earlier forecasts had predicted moderate to intense rainfall, accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds ranging from 40–90 km/h, to continue over the next couple of hours. Affected areas extended beyond Delhi to parts of Haryana, including Yamunanagar, Karnal, Safidon, Panipat, Sohana, Palwal, Nuh, Aurangabad, and Hodal. Several districts in Uttar Pradesh—such as Gangoh, Shamli, Kandhla, Nandgaon, Barsana, Raya, Hathras, Mathura, Sadabad, Agra, and Jajau—also witnessed similar weather. Rajasthan’s Bhiwari, Deeg, and Bharatpur experienced the impact too.

#Delhi NCR experiencing heavy rains and thunderstorm, temperature in the range of 18-21°c.
A start of a cool and wet May. We will see more rains and storms this weekend and next week over north and west #India #DelhiRains https://t.co/hppvHJHbhJ pic.twitter.com/wu4Gqfow9L

— Weatherman Navdeep Dahiya (@navdeepdahiya55) May 2, 2025

According to IMD’s weekly outlook, thunderstorms and rain are expected to persist through Friday and Saturday, likely leading to a minor drop in regional temperatures.

A fresh and active Western Disturbance from May 2 is also set to impact northwest India. IMD said this system would bring light to moderate rainfall, gusty winds, and lightning across Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit, Baltistan, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. “A dust storm accompanied with gusty winds is also very likely at isolated places over Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Punjab and Rajasthan,” the IMD stated.

Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh is bracing for a weather shift. On Thursday, the IMD issued a yellow alert for the lower and mid-hill districts, warning of possible thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. The hill state is expected to experience light to moderate rainfall and even snowfall in higher altitudes throughout the upcoming week.

From May 1, several districts in Himachal have seen increased rainfall activity. IMD forecasts suggest that this intermittent pattern will continue for five to seven days, likely causing a temperature drop of 3 to 4 degrees Celsius.

Raja Iqbal Singh Elected New Mayor of Delhi

April 25, 2025, 6:13 pm

BJP nominee Raja Iqbal Singh was voted the new Mayor of Delhi on Friday, as the party returned to power at the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) after two years.

With the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) abstaining from the vote and Congress scraping a presence, the BJP won handsomely with 133 votes out of 142. Singh’s opponent, Congress’ Mandeep, got a mere eight votes, one of which was invalid. The strength of the MCD is currently 238 with 12 seats lying vacant following some councillors winning the Delhi Assembly or Lok Sabha elections. BJP now has 117 councillors, up from 104 in 2022, while AAP has lost seats to 113 from 134. Congress has a mere eight seats.

The mayoral electoral college comprises 238 councillors, 10 MPs (seven from Lok Sabha and three from Rajya Sabha), and 14 MLAs. BJP’s strength was further increased with the addition of 11 BJP MLAs in the electoral college.

AAP’s call for boycotting the mayoral election was in reaction to reported defections engineered by the BJP. During the last election, in November 2024, AAP candidate Mahesh Kumar Khinchi had won with a narrow margin of three votes.

After getting elected as the Mayor, Raja Iqbal Singh thanked the top BJP leaders, such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, BJP national president JP Nadda, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva. He promised that his decisions would be for the development of Delhi without partiality. He said, “I would like to thank Prime Minister Modi, BJP national president JP Nadda, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva, and other party leaders. I assure you that I will work in coordination with the ruling party, the opposition, and the Congress. Decisions will be made for the development of Delhi without any discrimination.”

Singh, who is at present Leader of the Opposition in the MCD, is the former Mayor of North MCD and the former Chairman of Ward Committee of Civil Line Zone. He has been a former councillor of Ward 13 Mukherjee Nagar as well.

‘Felt Like An Apocalypse’: Dust Storm Slams Delhi-NCR, Causes Chaos

April 12, 2025, 12:50 pm

A fierce dust storm coupled with heavy rain and gusty winds swept through parts of Delhi-NCR during the evening hours of Friday, toppling trees, destroying property, and causing traffic disruptions in several areas of the national capital.

Residents used social media to share intense images of the storm outside their houses. One resident reported as follows, “My building is literally shaking right now. 20th floor, lights swinging, gusty wind outside in Delhi NCR. Wind is so strong the whole building is shaking. Lights in my flat are swinging like a pendulum. Feels like a 20-minute earthquake. I feel like puking. Can’t even think of using the lift and go out!”

Others took pictures of darkened skies, strong winds ripping through trees, and significantly low visibility. Trees fell on cars and a number of signboards came crashing down in the mayhem.

Flights Diverted Due to Turbulence

Flight services were hit as well, with over 15 flights redirected from Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. A passenger from an IndiGo flight flying in from Jammu shared shaky footage from onboard, describing heavy turbulence and multiple diversions.

Flight Indigo 6E2397 jammu To delhi experiencing a dust storm, affecting takeoffs and landings and potentially causing air traffic congestion at delhi airport we are diverted to jaipur after long 4 hrs waiting to land at delhi now waiting in aircraft at jaipur airport for… pic.twitter.com/2GDeO19UK1

— Dr. Safeer Choudhary (@aapkasafeer) April 11, 2025

As per statistics from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), gusts of wind reached 74 kmph at IGI Airport, 70 kmph at Pragati Maidan, and 69 kmph near the Lodhi Road area. Other places such as Najafgarh and Safdarjung saw winds of 37 to 56 kmph.

A video uploaded by a user from Gurgaon said, “Dust storm in Gurgaon. It was like apocalypse.”

Dust storm in Gurgaon. It was like apocalypse.pic.twitter.com/f6I1HjaH0s

— Tarun ? (@AsTarunTweets) April 11, 2025

The IMD has predicted further thunderstorms with rain for Saturday. There will be temperatures in the range of moderate to around 35°C and just below 20°C. The clearer skies, from Sunday and thereafter, can be expected again in the Delhi-NCR belt.

Red Fort, Jama Masjid Receive Bomb Threats, No Explosives Found

April 10, 2025, 5:07 pm

Panic set in sections of Delhi on Thursday (April 10) when two iconic locations the Red Fort and Jama Masjid were under bomb threats, officials reported. The security agencies hastened to carry out a full-scale investigation into the threats.

The Delhi Police said, “Red Fort and Jama Masjid received bomb threat call. According to Delhi Police, nothing suspicious was found during the check and the call was declared as hoax.”

The call was received at 9:03 AM, with the unknown caller saying bombs had been placed at the historic sites. In response, several police units, bomb disposal teams, and Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel were immediately deployed to the two locations.

A Delhi Fire Services official confirmed, “The security agencies (were instructed) to rush to the places and make thorough checks on Thursday morning.” He further added, “We rushed one fire tender at the location and made thorough searches. But nothing suspicious was detected at the locations.”

Subsequently, Delhi Police later clarified in a statement that bomb disposal squads and CISF conducted thorough searches on the premises but detected no indication of explosives or any other object of suspicion. The whole drama was ultimately authenticated as a hoax.

The whole incident, despite being a hoax, triggered an immediate and integrated response from the security forces in Delhi, establishing the city’s readiness in response to such exigencies.

PWD Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh Cracks Down on Negligence: Engineer Suspended, Officials Face Tough Scrutiny

March 21, 2025, 10:25 pm

In a decisive move against negligence, PWD Minister Parvesh Sahib Singh has ordered the suspension of an Executive Engineer stationed in East Delhi after discovering a drainage line in a severely deteriorated condition. During an inspection of roads in Patparganj, the minister found that the drains along NH 9 (Service Lane), also known as NH 24, were in an alarming state of neglect, with no visible maintenance efforts being undertaken.

“The PWD is responsible for maintaining these drains, yet the reality on the ground paints a completely different picture. I have directed the suspension of the engineer responsible for this dereliction of duty. Inefficiency will not be tolerated,” Minister Singh stated firmly.

He further condemned the complacency of officials, remarking that over the past decade, they have grown “thick-skinned” and indifferent to their responsibilities. He stressed the need for strict oversight and accountability to rectify the situation.

The Inspection

Subsequently, the minister carried out an inspection of roads and drains beginning from New Ashok Nagar Metro Station, extending through Chilla Village in Trilokpuri, and covering various parts of the Patparganj Assembly area. The condition of the drains was found to be extremely poor, creating hardships for residents. In response, Singh directed officials to take immediate remedial measures and ensure proper maintenance to prevent waterlogging and sanitation issues.

Expressing his strong dissatisfaction, the minister remarked, “It is the duty of officials to oversee basic upkeep, yet the current state of affairs is entirely unacceptable. Consistent monitoring and prompt action are essential to maintaining Delhi’s infrastructure.”

The Stern Warning

Issuing a stern warning to senior PWD officials, Minister Singh made it explicitly clear that anyone failing to fulfill their duties would face stringent disciplinary measures. “Delhi deserves world-class infrastructure and roads. Officials must take full responsibility for their roles. Those who fail to meet expectations will be held accountable,” he declared.

To enhance monitoring and enforce accountability, the PWD has now mandated all field officials—including junior engineers, assistant engineers, and executive engineers—to conduct daily road inspections and submit reports with photographs via the PWD e-monitoring app.

The department has noted with concern that officials have been neglecting their duty to report potholes, broken footpaths, encroachments, and other road-related issues. Furthermore, it has come to light that PWD field engineers have not been using the required e-monitoring system—an oversight that will no longer be excused.

As per the new enforcement measures Daily field inspections between 9:30 AM and 1:30 PM, including Saturdays. Mandatory submission of inspection reports, accompanied by photographs, through the PWD e-monitoring app. Strict disciplinary action against officials who fail to comply.

Minister Singh has made it clear—this crackdown is only the beginning. The PWD will now operate with heightened accountability and transparency, and those failing to meet their responsibilities will face serious consequences.

Delhi Man Reunites with Lost Dog, Heartwarming Video Goes Viral | WATCH

March 21, 2025, 1:31 pm

A touching tale of a Delhi man’s reunion with his missing dog, Charlie, is spreading smiles all over the internet. The video, in which the Golden Retriever happily wagging its tail was reunited with its owner, was uploaded on Reddit early Friday morning by one of the dog’s owner’s friends. The man took an overnight journey to reunite with his pet, as described in the post, “Missed Charlie is found, thanks to everyone who reached out to help.

In the clip, Charlie is chained up, and the man fondly touches him as he sits on his knees. Charlie’s owner’s friend had posted how Charlie was discovered in the post: “My friend finally found the doggo. He pasted posters everywhere around the neighborhood. And then a store owner called him and said that he saw the doggo with someone.”

As per the post, one worker had taken Charlie to Aligarh, and the shop owner was familiar with the worker. Upon some negotiation (maybe including threats), the worker disclosed Charlie’s whereabouts. “Some worker had taken the doggo to Aligarh. Shop owner knew the worker somehow. After some discussions (maybe some threats) that guy finally revealed where he was with the doggo.”

The post continued to reveal how the owner of the dog traveled overnight and was reunited with Charlie in the morning. “My friend travelled overnight and was reunited with him today morning. Thanks to everyone who helped and prayed. I just can’t help how wholesome this was, so decided to post the video and update you guys.”

Missed Charlie is found, thanks to everyone who reached out to help
byu/gitstatus indelhi

The touching reunion clip soon gained several comments from the users of Reddit who showed their happiness and affection for Charlie. One user wrote, “Big shoutout to the shop owner and everyone who helped, this is truly wholesome!” Another user, possibly reminiscing about his own pet, posted, “Thank God fur baby was reunited back with his parents. I can’t imagine if same happened to Casper.”

Most of them exclaimed their joy, with one of them stating, “Just what I needed to see before going to the gym,” and another stating, “Omygaawd that’s incredible, such a rare possibility it was.”

Delhi Man Allegedly Rapes British Tourist he Met on Instagram

March 13, 2025, 12:52 pm

A British lady was allegedly gang-raped by two men in a hotel based in Delhi’s Mahipalpur, the news agency ANI reported. One of the suspects, identified as Kailash, had befriended the victim on Instagram. Both the individuals have been arrested and informed the British High Commission about the incident, the Delhi Police said.

A man was taken into custody on rape charges for allegedly raping a British woman at a hotel in Mahipalpur, Delhi. His partner was arrested on molestation charges, police stated in a release.

“The woman, who had been in touch with the man through social networking sites, had come to Delhi from the UK to meet him. The British High Commission has also been intimated about the case,” authorities said.

According to police officials, Kailash, a resident of Vasundhara, Mayur Vihar, East Delhi, is in the habit of making Instagram reels. About three months ago, he exchanged messages with the woman, who is a resident of London, on the social media platform. When she came to Maharashtra and Goa, she contacted Kailash and asked him to come and meet her. But Kailash informed her that he was unable to travel and requested her to come to Delhi instead.

The woman arrived in Delhi on Tuesday night and stayed at a Mahipalpur hotel. Responding to the invitation, Kailash and his friend Wasim came to meet her at the hotel. The three of them drank and ate dinner before going to her room.

The woman was allegedly assaulted by Kailash by force, according to Amar Ujala. When she protested and made a noise, Kailash called for Wasim to the room to pacify her.

Another Shocking Incident

In another incident, an 8-year-old girl was allegedly raped by her father in Delhi’s Sadar Bazar. The case came to light when the girl’s mother lodged a complaint with the Sadar Bazar police station late on March 8, stating that her daughter had been raped. The suspect, a vegetable seller, was arrested on the same day after residents identified him and handed him over to the authorities of law and order.

Delhi: Man Sentenced To 10 Years For Abducting, Raping Infant

February 23, 2025, 12:14 am

Delhi’s Tis Hazari court has sentenced a man to ten years in prison for abducting and raping a one-and-a-half-year-old girl in 2019.

Special Judge (POCSO) Manoj Jain (II) sentenced the convict to ten years of imprisonment under Section 6 of the POCSO Act for raping the minor and imposed a fine of ₹1,000. Additionally, he was sentenced to three years under Section 363 of the IPC for kidnapping the child, with another fine of ₹1,000.

The prosecution sought the maximum possible sentence, arguing that the convict had committed a horrific crime against a minor and did not deserve any leniency. They emphasized that strict punishment was necessary to send a strong message to society.

The court also awarded ₹13.50 lakh in compensation to the victim. In determining the amount, the court considered the Victim Impact Assessment Report submitted by the Secretary, DLSA.

“Perusal of the same shows that the victim is now 6 years old. She suffered from internal injury due to the incident. It is further stated that the victim was admitted to LNJP hospital for around one month due to the incident,” the court noted.

The victim’s father also stated that he had spent ₹25,000 on her medical treatment following the incident.

The court acknowledged the victim’s suffering, stating that she endured pain, distress, and mental trauma. It emphasized the importance of Restorative and Compensatory Justice, considering the minor’s age and the impact of the crime. The court ruled:

“To give effect to the Restorative and Compensatory Justice, considering the entire facts and circumstances of the present case, including the age of the minor victim, for compensating the minor victim for the wrong committed upon her person and for her rehabilitation and relief, this Court is of the considered opinion that the victim should be awarded Rupees Thirteen Lakhs Fifty Thousand Only.”

The convict had submitted an affidavit detailing his financial condition, stating that he was 31 years old, unmarried, and worked as a painter earning around ₹8,000 per month. He also claimed that he was the sole caretaker of his elderly mother.

His defense lawyer argued that, given his age, socio-economic background, and the circumstances of the case, he should be granted leniency and released on probation.

The court had previously convicted him on December 4, 2024, under Sections 363 and 376AB of the IPC and Section 5(m), which carries a punishment under Section 6 of the POCSO Act.