Kolkata, Sep 23: Continuous overnight rainfall has brought Kolkata to a standstill, leaving many areas submerged and disrupting daily life. At least seven fatalities were reported due to electrocution after people came into contact with live wires in flooded localities.
Leader of Opposition in West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, criticized the city authorities, accusing them of “gross inefficiency” and claiming that the Kolkata and Bidhannagar municipal corporations failed to learn from past incidents. “With just one night’s rain, Kolkata-Salt Lake is submerged! This is catastrophic negligence, and those responsible must be held accountable,” Adhikari said on social media.
The ruling Trinamool Congress hit back, condemning the BJP for politicizing the situation. State minister Shashi Panja emphasized that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and municipal authorities are actively working to restore normalcy. “BJP’s social media statements are merely political rhetoric,” Panja stated.
Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim appealed to residents to stay indoors, noting that the situation could stabilize in 12-14 hours if rainfall ceases. The city witnessed widespread disruption to electricity, internet services, and traffic. Durga Puja pandals and residential complexes also faced significant waterlogging, forcing the University of Calcutta to postpone scheduled exams.
Transport Disruptions:
Suburban train services were severely affected, with waterlogged tracks at Howrah and Sealdah divisions, leading to cancellations including Hazarduari Express (13113) and Sealdah Jangipur Express (13177).
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport reported 30 flight cancellations and delays to 42 others due to adverse weather.
Weather Outlook:
The Regional Meteorological Centre in Kolkata warned of continued heavy rainfall in the city and south Bengal, linked to a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal. Another low-pressure system could form on September 25, potentially worsening conditions during the ongoing Durga Puja festivities.
Officials urged citizens to exercise caution as rainfall and waterlogging are expected to persist over the coming days.