(Image source from: PTI)
Eight individuals have lost their lives in incidents linked to rain in Kolkata and nearby areas after a significant downpour overnight caused flooding in various locations within the city. The fatalities occurred in different places, including Beniapukur, Kalikapur, Netaji Nagar, Gariahat, Ekbalpur, Behala, and Haridevpur. These locations are situated in the central and southern regions of Kolkata. At least three of these fatalities were due to electrocution. Flight activities at Kolkata airport faced major disruptions. Over 100 flights were impacted, with sixty-two being canceled and 42 experiencing delays, as passengers found it challenging to reach the airport.
The flooding has hampered traffic flow, as well as suburban rail and Metro services. In many low-lying areas of the city, water has entered houses and caused damage. Several schools have announced a holiday due to the rain. The rainfall was particularly heavy in the southern and eastern parts of the city. Data from the Kolkata Municipal Corporation shows that Garia Kamdahari recorded 332 mm of rain within a few hours, followed by Jodhpur Park with 285 mm, Kalighat with 280 mm, Topsia with 275 mm, and Ballygunge with 264 mm of rainfall.
The meteorological office has stated that the heavy rain is due to a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal. The city is preparing for more rain. A chart from the India Meteorological Department has illustrated the intense rainfall the city received in just a few hours. This heavy rainfall has come just days before the annual Durga Puja celebrations. The puja pandals in Kolkata, which attract visitors from around the world, are mostly set up, and organizers are concerned about preventing the rain from damaging their hard work. The flooded streets also create issues for those who are set to fly from Kolkata airport. Air India and IndiGo have both issued warnings and indicated that flights might be delayed today. Footage from the airport shows water accumulated on the runway. "Continuous and heavy rain may affect flights to and from Kolkata today. Please check your flight information at https://airindia.com/in/en/manage/flight-status.html before heading to the airport and allow extra time for your trip due to traffic and flooding," stated Air India.
With forecasted heavy rain and storms in Kolkata, there may be delays and slower traffic heading to and from the airport. IndiGo mentioned in a notice, “Although we can’t change the weather, we are making all efforts to ensure your travel on the ground goes smoothly.” "We suggest checking your flight details and allowing extra time to get to the airport. We will keep you updated and are here to assist you if you require help." The situation at the airport could also create difficulties for those arriving from different cities or countries to celebrate Durga Puja with their relatives. Kolkata's Mayor and senior Trinamool Congress member Firhad Hakim stated he has never experienced such severe waterlogging in the city. “There is a lot of water in my neighborhood as well. I have not witnessed anything like this before. The municipality is providing food and shelter for those affected. If the rain stops, we hope things will get back to normal by tonight." Calcutta Electric Supply Corporation, a major electricity provider in the city, has advised residents to keep away from wires and electric poles in flooded areas.
