Monsoon Fury: Kolkata Paralyzed by Flooding as Deluge ‘Floods’ Social Media

Unprecedented heavy rainfall has caused widespread flooding and disruption in Kolkata, leading to a state of near paralysis for the city. Videos circulating on social media show the severe impact, with streets turning into rivers, cars submerged, and floodwaters entering homes and businesses.

Key Impacts of the Deluge

• Widespread Waterlogging: Areas across the city, including major intersections like Park Circus and Gariahat, are submerged in knee-to-waist-deep water. Southern and eastern parts of the city were particularly hard-hit, with some areas receiving over 300 mm of rain in just a few hours.
• Disrupted Transportation: Public transport has been severely affected. Metro and train services were suspended in some sections, and buses broke down on flooded roads. Many residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, and airlines have issued advisories due to flight delays and disruptions at the airport.
• Safety Concerns and Fatalities: The heavy rains have also led to tragic consequences, with at least seven people reportedly dying from electrocution due to submerged electric wires.
• Durga Puja Preparations Affected: The downpour comes just days before the start of the Durga Puja festival, with floodwaters inundating many of the pandals set up for the celebrations.

Videos on social media platforms have captured the scenes of chaos, showing everything from stranded vehicles on major flyovers to people attempting to fish on flooded streets. The situation has prompted local authorities to monitor the situation closely and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue warnings of continued heavy rainfall in the region.