Heavy Rains Cripple Kolkata; Schools Shut, Multiple Deaths Reported
At least three people died of electrocution in rain-hit areas, according to Lalbazar Police Control.
Kolkata reeled under the impact of very heavy overnight rainfall on Tuesday, which triggered massive waterlogging, traffic jams, and disruption of public transport across the city and its suburbs. At least seven people have died of electrocution in rain-hit areas, officials confirmed, as normal life came to a grinding halt.
City Paralyzed by Flooding
Roads across key intersections such as Park Circus, Gariahat, Behala, and College Street went underwater, with commuters wading through knee-to-waist-deep water. Long traffic snarls were reported on EM Bypass, AJC Bose Road and Central Avenue, while several smaller lanes in south and central Kolkata were completely cut off. Residents also reported water entering homes and residential complexes.
Transport Disrupted
Public transport was badly hit. Several buses broke down mid-way, while taxis and app cabs stayed off the roads or charged exorbitant fares.
Metro services were suspended between Shahid Khudiram and Maidan stations due to waterlogging on the Blue Line, while truncated services were run between Dakshineswar and Maidan. Train movement in the Sealdah South section was halted, while services in Sealdah North, Main, and Circular Railway lines faced major disruptions as tracks went underwater. Eastern Railway also reported partial disruption at Howrah and Kolkata terminal stations.
Schools Declared Shut
Amid the worsening situation, the West Bengal government announced Puja holidays on September 24 and 25 ahead of schedule, closing all schools and higher education institutions. Education Minister Bratya Basu called the situation an “unprecedented disaster” and directed teachers and staff to perform essential duties from home.
Record Rainfall and Forecast
According to the Kolkata Municipal Corporation, southern and eastern parts of the city witnessed the heaviest rainfall: Garia Kamdahari recorded 332 mm, Jodhpur Park 285 mm, Kalighat 280 mm, Topsia 275 mm, and Ballygunge 264 mm. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of more downpour in South Bengal districts, including Purba and Paschim Medinipur, South 24 Parganas, Jhargram, and Bankura. Another low-pressure system is expected to form over the Bay of Bengal around September 25.
