Kolkata: Kolkata heavy rain has brought the eastern Indian city and surrounding areas to a standstill, with at least 12 people reported dead.
Most rain fell in a 24-hour period, measuring up to 251.6 mm (9.9 inches), the heaviest since 1988, said HR Biswas, regional head of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) in Kolkata.
Police reported nine fatalities within Kolkata, primarily due to electrocution, while two people drowned. The intense rainfall has disrupted preparations for Durga Puja, the largest annual festival in West Bengal. Temporary festival structures, or pandals, and clay idols have suffered significant damage across the city.
Roads in several areas were submerged under waist-deep water, leaving vehicles stranded and forcing commuters to wade through floodwaters.
Road, train, and air transport were severely affected, with multiple flights and trains cancelled or delayed. Power outages have compounded difficulties for residents in several neighborhoods.
Authorities have deployed water pumps to clear streets and railway tracks, while relief efforts, including food distribution and emergency services, are underway. IMD forecasts further rainfall in eastern India due to a low-pressure area forming over the Bay of Bengal.
The state government declared schools and educational institutions closed on September 24 and 25 ahead of Durga Puja holidays starting September 26. Officials have urged residents to remain cautious as water levels gradually recede in low-lying areas.
Local resident Sandip Ghosh said that the city is in poor condition, noting that four hours of rain caused significant disruption and damage. Experts continue to monitor the situation as authorities work to restore normalcy in Kolkata and surrounding regions.
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