Torrential rains kill 12 in Kolkata, trigger widespread flooding and disruptions

KOLKATA: Kolkata has been hit by its heaviest rainfall in nearly four decades, leaving at least 12 people dead and bringing life in the eastern Indian metropolis to a halt just days before West Bengal’s biggest festival.

Officials confirmed on Wednesday that intense overnight downpours flooded vast parts of the city, severely impacting daily life, transportation, and preparations for the upcoming Durga Puja celebrations.

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According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Kolkata recorded a staggering 251.6 mm (9.9 inches) of rainfall within 24 hours, the city’s most extreme rainfall event since 1988. The deluge began in the early hours of Tuesday, catching many residents off guard.

Kolkata Police reported that nine of the 12 fatalities occurred in the city itself, with most deaths resulting from electrocution. Two others drowned during the flooding.

Major roads were submerged under waist-deep water in several neighborhoods, forcing commuters to wade through flooded streets or remain stranded for hours. Many vehicles were either stalled or abandoned, while widespread power outages added to the chaos.

Air and rail services were also hit hard. Numerous flights and trains were delayed or canceled, leaving travelers stuck. “I was trapped in my hotel because my flight was canceled and the roads were completely waterlogged,” said Ranjan Panda, a water and climate expert visiting the city.

The timing of the flooding has also disrupted Durga Puja preparations. Temporary bamboo structures known as pandals, along with intricately crafted clay idols of Hindu deities, sustained damage in multiple locations.

Local authorities have mobilized emergency crews to drain water from roads and railway lines. Relief efforts, including food distribution and emergency medical services, have been initiated in affected areas.

The IMD warned that further rainfall is likely over the next few days due to a low-pressure system forming over the Bay of Bengal. In response, the West Bengal government ordered the closure of schools and colleges on Wednesday and Thursday, ahead of scheduled festival holidays.

Also read: Six dead as torrential rains flood Karachi; Malir, Lyari rivers overflow

While officials expect conditions to improve by Wednesday evening, they urged residents in low-lying areas to remain alert. “This should not have happened after just four hours of rain,” said local resident Sandip Ghosh. “West Bengal is not in a good state.”

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as the region braces for more rain.