Kolkata: Seven people have died in rain-related incidents across Kolkata and its suburbs after a night of relentless downpour flooded several parts of the city. The fatalities were reported from Beniapukur, Kalikapur, Netaji Nagar, Gariahat, Ekbalpur, Behala, and Haridevpur — spread across central and southern Kolkata. At least three victims died due to electrocution.
The city was hit by widespread waterlogging that disrupted road traffic, suburban train services, and Metro operations. In many low-lying neighborhoods, water entered homes, damaging property and forcing residents to take shelter elsewhere. Several schools have announced a rain holiday.
According to Kolkata Municipal Corporation data, the southern and eastern parts of the city were worst affected. Garia Kamdahari recorded the highest rainfall at 332 mm within hours, followed by Jodhpur Park (285 mm), Kalighat (280 mm), Topsia (275 mm), and Ballygunge (264 mm). The India Meteorological Department said the heavy spell of rain was triggered by a low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal, warning that more showers are expected.
The timing of the deluge is a major concern as it comes just days before Kolkata’s world-famous Durga Puja celebrations. Pandal organisers, who have spent months preparing elaborate structures, are now working to prevent rain damage.
Air travel has also been hit. Visuals from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport showed waterlogging on the tarmac, raising concerns of flight delays. Air India and IndiGo have issued advisories, urging passengers to check flight status before leaving for the airport and to allow extra travel time due to traffic snarls and waterlogging.
Air India advisory:
“Persistent and heavy rain may impact flights to and from Kolkata today. Please check your flight status before leaving for the airport and allow extra time for your journey.”
IndiGo advisory:
“With heavy rainfall and thunderstorms expected, there may be delays. Please check your flight status and leave early for the airport.”
The situation is particularly challenging for those flying into Kolkata from other cities and countries to join family for Durga Puja festivities.
Kolkata Mayor Firhad Hakim called the situation unprecedented.
“I have never seen this level of waterlogging in my locality too. The corporation is arranging food and shelter for affected residents. If there is no further rainfall, we expect things to return to normal by tonight,” he said.
Meanwhile, Calcutta Electric Supply Corporation (CESC) has appealed to residents to avoid electric poles and exposed wires on flooded streets to prevent accidents.
