Extensive measures rolled out to restore normalcy in water-bound Gurugram; corporates urged to WFH

Gurugram, Jul 7 (PTI) After continuous heavy rainfall on Tuesday brought the city to its knees, triggering waterlogging at several underpasses and major road stretches, Gurugram Police initiated extensive measures to ensure smooth traffic movement, an official said. Additional police personnel have been deployed at identified locations to restore normal traffic flow at the earliest. In view of anticipated heavy rainfall, Gurugram Police has issued an advisory urging corporate employees to work from home. The advisory states there is significant risk of waterlogging and traffic congestion across major arterial roads and intersections in the city. According to police, the advisory was issued to ensure commuter safety, prevent unnecessary traffic load, and assist local authorities in managing road conditions effectively. "We strongly urge the corporate sector and private establishments to encourage Work from Home (WFH) arrangements for their employees for the next few days. Minimising non-essential vehicular movement will greatly assist our traffic management teams in maintaining traffic flow and ensuring emergency services remain unobstructed. We appreciate your cooperation in prioritising the safety and well-being of our citizens," the advisory read. Gurugram witnessed its first spell of heavy monsoon rain on Tuesday afternoon, logging around 82 mm rainfall, with road cave-ins, waterlogging and unending traffic jams reported from across the city. The administration's claims regarding 'no waterlogging' were washed away as the city lay submerged. Severe traffic jams were triggered due to waterlogging across highways and key roads. According to a Gurugram Police statement, senior police officers visited various affected locations to assess the traffic situation and issued necessary directions to officers deployed on the ground. Coordination has been established with the Municipal Corporation, Gurugram Metropolitan Development Authority (GMDA), and other departments concerned to ensure prompt action to clear waterlogging and obstructions and mend damaged road surfaces. Deputy commissioners of police, assistant commissioners, traffic inspectors, zonal officers and other police personnel are deployed on roads, monitoring traffic movement and coordinating with the concerned departments to remove obstructions and restore normalcy, the statement said. "Gurugram Police deployed cranes, recovery vehicles, pumps, water tankers, and other available resources to rescue vehicles stranded in waterlogged areas. Wherever required, assistance from private resources was also taken," a senior official said. Stranded and damaged vehicles were shifted to secure locations, and assistance was provided to motorists. "With support of additional police personnel, Gurugram Police and Traffic Police ensured continuous regulation of traffic at waterlogged locations, major intersections, underpasses, and other sensitive routes," he said. "Despite heavy rainfall and challenging conditions, police officers and personnel remained on duty with dedication and commitment, significantly contributing to the early restoration of smooth traffic movement," he added. In view of the prevailing weather conditions, Gurugram Police has ensured regular deployment of police officers and personnel across all zones so that adequate force is readily available to respond to any emergency or adverse situation, the official said. Coordination is being maintained with all departments concerned to remove waterlogging and other obstructions at the earliest, he added. PTI COR ARB ARB