India, June 19 -- Waterlogging persisting for around an hour after rains is normal, the chief minister said on Wednesday, as "drainage systems or stormwater drains cannot absorb that much water all at once".

However, if rainwater persists for a longer duration than that, drains will be checked for blockages, she said.

The CM's remarks came while addressing concerns related to the annual waterlogging crisis in the city, especially during the monsoon rains.

"During rainfall...water accumulation is natural. There is no frying pan beneath the surface which will evaporate the water instantly. If the water clears out within 30 minutes to an hour, it's natural. But if it takes longer, that's when it becomes problematic. It may be due to a blo...