Heavy rains flood Bengaluru, disrupt life

Several areas of Bengaluru were submerged under knee-deep water following an intense overnight downpour that left parts of the city severely waterlogged. Boats were seen navigating flooded streets as residents faced significant disruptions in daily life.

The unrelenting rains, caused by cyclonic conditions, led to the closure of service roads, including the Kogilu Junction towards the IAF base, as local authorities focused on rescue operations. The traffic police of Northeast Bengaluru urged caution and announced road closures to facilitate emergency responses.

According to recent rainfall data, Bengaluru Urban received 157 mm of rain, while the rural parts of the district saw even higher levels at 176.5 mm. The rainfall has sparked widespread anger among residents, with many criticising the local civic body, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), for inadequate infrastructure planning and poor drainage systems.

Tragically, the heavy rains also claimed the life of a 56-year-old woman in Sarjapur. While riding pillion on her husband’s scooter, the couple slowed to avoid potholes when a mini-truck collided with them, leading to her death. This incident is the first rain-related fatality reported in Bengaluru this year.

The deluge also caused chaos at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport, where over 20 flights were delayed, and several were diverted due to the stormy weather. Schools across the city were forced to close for the second time in a week due to the extreme conditions.

Authorities are assessing the damage and working to restore normalcy, but with rains predicted to continue, residents are urged to remain cautious.(UNI)<>