Kolkata: Torrential rainfall overnight has brought Kolkata and the surrounding districts to a standstill, causing widespread flooding, traffic disruptions, and power outages. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has attributed the heavy rain to an intensified low-pressure system over the northeast Bay of Bengal and has issued warnings of continued rainfall in the coming days.
At least seven people lost their lives due to electrocution from submerged electric wires in waterlogged streets. Fatalities were reported from areas including Beniapukur, Khidderpore, and Netaji Nagar. Many homes and residential complexes were inundated, leaving roads impassable and severely affecting daily life.
The Kolkata Municipal Corporation reported extreme rainfall in several parts of the city, including 332 mm in Garia Kamdahari, 285 mm in Jodhpur Park, 280.2 mm in Kalighat, 275 mm in Topsia, 264 mm in Ballygunge, and 195 mm in Thanthania. The southern and eastern areas of the city were particularly affected.
Transportation was heavily disrupted. Waterlogging at Howrah and Sealdah station yards led to the short-termination and short-origination of several suburban train services. Metro operations were halted due to flooding in tunnels and stations. Kolkata Airport also experienced waterlogging on the tarmac, prompting airlines including Air India and IndiGo to issue travel advisories and caution passengers about possible flight delays.
Schools across the city declared holidays, and the Kolkata Municipal Corporation deployed drainage pumps to manage the flooding. Authorities have urged residents to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel.
The IMD has warned that districts including Purba Medinipur, Paschim Medinipur, South 24 Parganas, Jhargram, and Bankura may experience continued heavy rainfall until September 24. A new low-pressure system forming over the east-central Bay of Bengal may further increase rainfall in the region.
The severe downpour underscores Kolkata’s vulnerability to extreme weather, highlighting the urgent need for improved urban planning and disaster preparedness. Authorities continue to work to restore normalcy and ensure public safety.