In a distressing visual now going viral, a government school in Delhi’s Badarpur area was submerged in knee-deep water, forcing students to sit on benches surrounded by floodwater. This happened after continuous heavy rainfall hit the capital on Monday morning (July 21, 2025). Videos and images of students attending classes while lifting their bags above murky water have raised alarm across social media.
What should have been a regular school day turned into a wake-up call regarding the drainage failure in the national capital. The images evoke concern not just for children’s safety, but also for the city's readiness to handle monsoons.
How Did the Flooding Happen?
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had already issued a yellow alert for heavy to very heavy rainfall in the Delhi-NCR region. However, it appears that on-ground preparations were lacking.
The affected school lies in a low-lying area prone to water accumulation due to blocked drains and poor slope management. Within hours of rainfall, classrooms, corridors, and the playground were waterlogged.
Shocking Images Emerge on Social Media
The incident went viral after videos were shared on X (formerly Twitter), showing young children—some as young as 7—sitting on wooden benches with their feet submerged. Some were seen walking barefoot through the water to reach their classrooms.
Parents expressed their anger. “We send our kids to school to study, not swim,” said Rukmini Devi, whose son is in Class 4. Another parent added, “There was no prior warning. The school should have declared a holiday.”
School Authorities Respond
The school management admitted the problem but blamed “unprecedented rainfall” and “inadequate civic infrastructure.” A senior teacher said, “We tried pumping the water out, but it was flowing in faster than we could remove it.”
They said students were allowed to return home, but many had already arrived before conditions worsened. Staff had to manage the children until their parents came.
What Are the Health and Safety Risks?
Stagnant water inside the school poses several dangers:
- Waterborne diseases like cholera, diarrhea, and dysentery.
- Skin infections due to contact with dirty water.
- Electrical risks if sockets or wiring touch water.
- Mental stress and trauma for small children.
Dr. Renu Sharma, a Delhi-based pediatrician, said, “Even short-term exposure can cause bacterial or fungal infections. Schools should not remain open in such unsafe conditions.”
Drainage Woes in Delhi: A Recurring Nightmare
This wasn’t the only affected school. Many institutions and buildings across Delhi reported similar waterlogging that day.
Despite yearly budget allocations for monsoon readiness, Delhi’s drainage system remains broken. Agencies like the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) and Public Works Department (PWD) often pass the blame back and forth.
Locals near the Badarpur school said drains had not been cleaned “since last monsoon.”
Political Reactions Pour In
The viral video sparked comments from both ruling and opposition parties. Education Minister Atishi Marlena called the situation “unacceptable” and ordered inspections of all low-lying schools.
Opposition leader Ramvir Singh Bidhuri said the AAP’s “world-class education” claim is exposed when children are sitting in water.
Government Action Promised
Amid public outrage, the Delhi government has pledged:
- Immediate inspections of school drainage systems.
- Temporary water pumps in vulnerable areas.
- Disaster response teams deployed during heavy rain.
- Plans for rainwater harvesting and improved drainage.
But many locals remain doubtful. “They make promises every year, but nothing really changes,” said a parent from the affected school.
Why Is Delhi So Vulnerable to Urban Flooding?
Delhi’s flood risk is driven by multiple causes:
- Too much concrete and not enough open ground to absorb water.
- Clogged storm drains filled with plastic waste and debris.
- Encroachments on natural drainage routes and lakes.
- Delayed desilting by civic authorities.
Experts emphasize the need for better urban planning and active citizen participation to prevent such disasters.
FAQs – Delhi School Flooding 2025
1. Why did the school in Badarpur flood?
Because of heavy rainfall combined with blocked drains and poor slope design in the school’s location.
2. Were students harmed during the flooding?
No physical injuries were reported, but health risks remain due to water exposure.
3. Did the school remain open throughout the day?
Yes, the school remained open until parents picked up their children.
4. What action has the Delhi government taken?
An inspection order has been issued and temporary water pumps are being installed in low-lying schools.
5. Is this an isolated incident in Delhi?
No, multiple areas in Delhi reported similar waterlogging due to heavy rain.
6. What health risks are students exposed to?
Waterborne diseases, skin infections, and electric hazards.
7. Who is responsible for school infrastructure safety?
Civic bodies like MCD and PWD, along with the school’s administration.
8. How often are drains cleaned in Delhi schools?
Ideally before monsoon season, but in practice, many are neglected for years.
9. What has the Education Minister said?
She termed the situation unacceptable and has ordered inspections.
10. How can this be prevented in future?
Regular desilting, improved drainage planning, and timely infrastructure checks.
Conclusion: A Call for Accountability and Action
The image of children sitting in waterlogged classrooms is not just a shocking moment—it's a strong indictment of systemic failure. Immediate steps like dewatering and inspection are essential, but only long-term planning will prevent recurrence.
Delhi must protect its children, not just in terms of education but also their safety. The time for promises is over—it's time for real action.
Report by Toofan Express