Kolkata Rains Wreak Havoc Just Days Before Durga Puja: City Flooded After Heavy Rainfall Overnight

Kolkata yesterday experienced one of its heaviest rainfalls in recent years, after a massive cloudburst caused continuous downpours from the evening of September 22 to early September 23, wreaking havoc in the city. Several parts of the city have reported severe waterlogging up to knee- and waist-level, causing a lot of problems for normal life, affecting transport services, and forcing schools to shut.

Record Rainfall Across Kolkata: IMD Issues Alert

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued orange and yellow alerts for West Bengal, warning that heavy rain may continue till September 25, 2025, due to a persistent low-pressure area over the northeast Bay of Bengal.

According to reports, some areas of the city received extremely heavy rainfall in just a few hours.Some of the worst-affected areas include Garia Kamdahari, which recorded 332 mm of rain, followed by Jodhpur Park with 285 mm, Kalighat at 280 mm, Topsia at 275 mm, Ballygunge at 264 mm, and Thantania in North Kolkata, which received 195 mm of rainfall. These unprecedented downpours have caused widespread flooding, disrupted normal life, and impacted transportation across the city.

Casualties Reported After Heavy Rains

At least seven people lost their lives in rain-related incidents across Kolkata, including cases of electrocution in flooded areas. Officials have urged residents to avoid venturing out unnecessarily and to stay clear of waterlogged stretches, especially where live wires may be exposed.
Post Major roads and crossings are submerged, causing hours-long traffic jams. Several local train & metro services were suspended due to waterlogging in key railway yards and maintenance sheds. Authorities have advised schools to remain closed, while many offices have asked employees to work from home.

Measures taken to tackle the situation

The Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has deployed pumps across affected areas to drain out water, but with continuous rainfall, normalcy is expected to take time. Authorities have urged residents to remain patient and follow safety advisories.

CM Mamata Banerjee issued a statement on her X handle: "Our teams are working to normalise the situation in Kolkata and nearby areas devastated by sudden heavy rains. Rivers and canals are already in chaos due to water release from DVC and inflows from Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. I have instructed that all government schools, colleges, universities, and offices remain closed or work from home for the next two days."

"Saving lives is our top priority. Our condolences to the families of those who died due to electrocution. We are asking CESC to provide compensation and will ensure one government job per affected family. A control room has been opened at Navanna (Phone: 91-33-22143526 / 91-33-22535185) and a toll-free number: 91-8697981070. I will not inaugurate pujas in Kolkata today and will do it virtually. Citizens are urged to stay cautious over the next few days." Her statement further noted

Rain Before Durga Puja Festivities

The timing of this unprecedented rainfall has added to the city's worries as Kolkata prepares for Durga Puja 2025, the biggest festival in West Bengal. With pandal preparations underway, heavy flooding has already delayed setup in several parts of the city.

Advisory for Residents in Kolkata During Heavy Rains and Flooding

• Residents are urged to stay indoors and avoid travelling on waterlogged roads, which can be dangerous due to hidden potholes, strong currents, or even live electrical wires
• Keep essential supplies such as drinking water, medicines, and flashlights ready.
• Always keep track of updates from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and local government advisories to stay informed about rainfall forecasts, flood warnings, and evacuation notices.
• Keep emergency numbers handy for immediate help in case of power outages, waterlogging, or medical emergencies.