Kolkata, West Bengal — Kolkata was plunged into chaos on Monday night as relentless heavy rainfall flooded the city’s streets, claiming six lives and bringing daily activity to a standstill just days before the festive Durga Puja season.
Residents awoke to submerged roads across southern and eastern neighborhoods such as Garia, Ballygunge, Kalighat, and Jodhpur Park, with more than 280 mm of rain pouring down in just twelve hours. Commuters found metro services suspended and major traffic arteries blocked as water rose through the night, trapping vehicles and forcing schools and offices to close.
“It’s the worst waterlogging we’ve ever seen,” said Sudipta Banerjee, a shopkeeper in Jodhpur Park. “There’s knee-deep water everywhere and we’re afraid to step outside because of electrocution risks.” Authorities confirmed that several deaths were the result of accidental electrocution as floodwaters crept into homes and businesses.
The India Meteorological Department issued a yellow alert for the city, warning citizens to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel as further showers were predicted for the coming days. Flights were delayed at Dumdum Airport, while railway and road services suffered massive backlogs, leaving thousands stranded or delayed on their journeys.
Municipal officials said power cuts and water supply disruptions affected large sections of the city. Emergency teams worked through the morning to rescue stranded residents and restore essential services. “We are taking all necessary steps to prevent further accidents,” a senior city administrator told the media. “But the infrastructure has suffered a major blow.”
In a city preparing for Durga Puja amidst rising excitement, the weather’s impact cast a pall over celebrations, with pandals submerged, supply routes blocked, and preparations suspended.
“This rain has brought heartbreak and uncertainty to Kolkata just when we looked forward to joy,” said local resident Priya Mukherjee.
As the city braces for continued rain and mounting challenges, officials urge citizens to exercise caution and check travel advisories frequently. Kolkata’s resilience is already being tested, with the community uniting in response to what many call the worst flooding in decades.
