Kolkata Rains Bring City To A Standstill: Routes To Avoid And IMD Forecast

Kolkata woke up to chaos as relentless rains turned its streets into waterlogged zones, paralysing daily life. From key arterial roads to residential colonies, no part of the city was spared. With traffic crawling and commuters stranded, the downpour exposed Kolkata’s fragile infrastructure once again. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), thunderstorms and gusty winds may continue, adding to the woes. For residents, the next few days will demand caution, patience, and planning.

Key Routes Hit By Waterlogging

Park Street & Esplanade

The city’s commercial hub was brought to a near halt. Office-goers waded through knee-deep water while traffic moved at a snail’s pace.

Howrah Bridge & MG Road

Severe waterlogging caused long queues of vehicles trying to enter and exit central Kolkata. Commuters faced hours of delay.

Salt Lake & Sector V

The IT hub was among the worst-hit. Tech workers reported buses stuck, cabs cancelling rides, and autos refusing passengers.

VIP Road & Airport Route

The approach road to the airport saw massive congestion, leading to missed flights and frustrated travellers.

IMD Forecast For Kolkata

The IMD has predicted:

• Continued heavy rainfall for the next 48 hours.
• Possibility of thunderstorms and gusty winds across the city.
• Moderate risk of flash flooding in low-lying areas.

This forecast suggests commuters should avoid unnecessary travel and keep track of route updates before stepping out.

Impact On Daily Life

Shops, schools, and offices saw low attendance, while small businesses suffered major losses due to flooding. Residential areas in Tollygunge, Behala, and North Kolkata reported water entering homes. Hospitals also faced difficulties with ambulances stuck in traffic, highlighting the emergency nature of the situation.

Reactions From Residents

Residents expressed frustration on social media:

• Many blamed poor drainage systems.
• Some demanded better urban planning as such situations repeat every monsoon.
• Commuters shared images of stranded buses and cars floating in waterlogged streets.

Bigger Picture: Why Kolkata Faces This Every Year

Waterlogging in Kolkata isn’t new. Experts say outdated drainage systems, encroachment on natural water channels, and unplanned urbanisation worsen the crisis. Unless systemic changes are made, the city will continue to face this annual nightmare.

Conclusion

Kolkata’s heavy rain is more than just a weather update — it’s a reminder of how vulnerable the city remains to climate stress. With the IMD warning of more showers ahead, residents must stay alert, plan their travel wisely, and push for accountability in civic infrastructure.