A powerful dust storm swept across Delhi-NCR on Wednesday evening, leading to heavy rains and hailstorms. The sudden change in weather led to widespread disruption, including power outages, traffic jams and tree felling.
The storm hit suddenly around 8 pm, reducing visibility drastically as strong winds carrying loose dust blanketed the skies.
Several parts of Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, and Ghaziabad witnessed intense hailstorms and torrential rain following the dust storm. In Noida, hail battered rooftops and roads shortly after the storm passed.
Many areas experienced power outages across Delhi-NCR due to the sudden weather change. Traffic snarls were reported on major stretches, including the Noida-Greater Noida Expressway, Kalindi Kunj border, and DND Flyway.
NOIDA WELCOME BOARD COLLAPSED, TREES UPROOTED
The intense wind and rain led to infrastructure damage, including fallen trees and overhead electric (OHE) line disturbances.
The Noida Welcome Board also collapsed under the force of the wind, while trees and banners fell at multiple spots, leading to severe traffic jams.
Meanwhile, a large tree crashed onto a car at Copernicus Marg, near India Gate. The driver is safe.
METRO DELAYED, SERVICES HALTED
Delhi Metro services were significantly affected, particularly on the Red, Yellow, and Pink Lines. Service was halted temporarily at several stations including Shaheed Nagar, Jahangirpuri, and Nizamuddin.
At Mayur Vihar Phase 1, over 30 minutes delay was reported as commuters crowded the station.
While Pink Line services resumed by 9:18 PM, disruptions on the Red and Yellow Lines persisted late into the evening.
