Kolkata witnessed its heaviest rainfall in nearly four decades, leaving the city battered and submerged just days before the much-anticipated Durga Puja festivities. According to official reports, at least 12 people lost their lives in rain-related incidents, while thousands of residents struggled with waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and power outages. The calamity has raised urgent concerns about the city’s preparedness for extreme weather events and the challenges it poses during one of its most significant cultural celebrations.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) confirmed that Kolkata recorded its highest single-day rainfall in 37 years, surpassing all records since 1988. Torrential downpours, lasting for more than 24 hours, flooded key areas including North Kolkata, Salt Lake, Behala, and several parts of Howrah. Roads turned into rivers, forcing commuters to abandon vehicles, while railway and flight services were delayed or canceled. The state administration deployed disaster response teams to assist stranded residents and restore essential services.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed grief over the loss of lives and announced compensation for the families of the deceased. She also assured citizens that restoration work was being carried out on a war footing. “The timing of this calamity, just ahead of Durga Puja, makes it even more painful for the people of Bengal,” she said. Emergency shelters have been set up in low-lying areas, while municipal workers are engaged in clearing clogged drains and restoring electricity.
The disaster has cast a shadow over Durga Puja preparations, with pandal construction sites severely affected. Several organizers reported damage to decorative structures and idols, raising concerns about completing arrangements on time. Artisans and workers, who depend heavily on this season for their livelihood, face uncertainty as rains continue to lash parts of the state. For many, the festive spirit has been dampened by the scale of destruction, although resilience remains strong among organizers determined to move forward.
Experts have highlighted that such extreme rainfall events are becoming increasingly frequent due to the impact of climate change and rapid urbanization. Environmentalists have criticized the lack of proper drainage and urban planning in Kolkata, which they argue has aggravated the flooding. With Durga Puja drawing lakhs of visitors to the city every year, they stress the urgent need for long-term infrastructural reforms to ensure public safety and minimize future disruptions.
Meanwhile, the IMD has warned of intermittent showers in the coming days, urging residents to remain cautious. Disaster management teams remain on high alert, while authorities have appealed to the public to avoid unnecessary travel.
As Kolkata struggles to recover from the heaviest rainfall in 37 years, the tragedy underscores the city’s vulnerability to extreme weather and the need for better preparedness. While the spirit of Durga Puja may face temporary setbacks, the resilience of its people continues to shine through adversity, reflecting the cultural strength that defines the festival and the city itself.
