Heavy rains flood Bengaluru streets
Severe flooding in Bengaluru, India, has left local residents wading through waist-high water as authorities conduct rescue operations following heavy rains. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the city experienced 130 mm of rain in just 12 hours, marking the heaviest May rainfall in two years. This deluge resulted in three fatalities, inundated over 500 homes, and brought more than 20 lakes close to overflowing. The flooding also led to the closure of several underpasses and flyovers, disrupting public transportation services, including buses.
Local resident Masiah highlighted the recurring nature of the flooding, attributing it to inadequate sewage and drainage systems, which disrupt daily life, including access to schools and workplaces. In a distressing incident, a pregnant woman named Nandini S. was stranded in a bus near the Central Silk Board Metro station, unable to evacuate due to rising floodwaters.
The IMD has issued a yellow alert for Bengaluru, predicting continued heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, linked to a cyclonic circulation over the Arabian Sea that is expected to impact southern and central India. The recent flooding underscores the city's ongoing challenges with its drainage infrastructure, despite the establishment of the Greater Bengaluru Authority aimed at improving urban planning and civic services just days prior.
Residents are urged to exercise caution, avoid waterlogged areas, and stay informed through official advisories as the city deals with the aftermath of the heavy rains. The situation has raised concerns about the city's preparedness for extreme weather events, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure to handle such crises effectively. As the community grapples with the impact of the flooding, the focus remains on recovery and the urgent need for long-term solutions to prevent future disasters.
