Kolkata Reels Under Historic Rainfall: 8 Dead, Transport Chaos
Kolkata is battling its worst rainfall in 37 years after record-breaking downpours left eight people dead from electrocution and paralyzed the city’s transport system. The Indian Meteorological Department has issued a 24-hour heavy rain alert for Kolkata and south West Bengal districts as the region faces unprecedented flooding.
Key Takeaways
- 8 fatalities due to electrocution in rain-related incidents
- 251.4mm rainfall recorded – highest since 1988
- 30+ flights and multiple train services cancelled
- Heavy rain alert extended for 24 hours across South Bengal
- Schools closed early, government staff to work from home
Record-Breaking Downpour
Kolkata experienced its heaviest single-day rainfall in 37 years on Monday night, with the weather agency recording 251.4mm in 24 hours. The city came dangerously close to a cloudburst when it received 98mm rainfall between 3am and 4am on Tuesday – just 2mm short of the cloudburst threshold.
According to IMD officials, “Under the influence of a low-pressure area over coastal Gangetic West Bengal, adjoining north Odisha, and the northwest Bay of Bengal, heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected.” The weather system developed on September 22 and moved to coastal areas by September 23 morning.
Extended Weather Warning
The Alipore weather office has warned of continued heavy rainfall in Purba and Paschim Medinipur, South 24 Parganas, Jhargram and Bankura districts until Wednesday. Another fresh low-pressure area is expected to form over the Bay of Bengal around September 25, potentially extending the wet spell.
Transport Chaos and Cancellations
The overnight deluge crippled Kolkata’s transportation network, leading to the cancellation of at least 30 flights and several train services. Major arteries including EM Bypass, AJC Bose Road and Central Avenue transformed into rivers, while traffic snarls plagued key intersections like Park Circus, Gariahat, Behala and College Street for hours.
Smaller lanes in southern and central Kolkata remained completely cut off, isolating many residential areas.
Government Response and CM’s Statement
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee described the situation as unprecedented and announced several emergency measures:
- Schools to advance puja holidays
- Government officials to work from home for two days
- Jobs and compensation for families of electrocution victims
The Chief Minister squarely blamed the Calcutta Electric Supply Corporation for the eight electrocution deaths, stating: “Electricity is supplied by CESC, not us. It is their duty to ensure people do not suffer because of this. They will do business here, but not modernise here? They should send people to the field and fix this.”
Durga Puja Preparations Affected
With IMD predicting continued heavy rainfall, Durga puja pandal organizers are maintaining constant vigil to prevent rainwater from damaging their elaborate arrangements. The timing coincides with the peak puja preparation period, raising concerns about potential disruptions to the city’s biggest festival.
