Heavy rainfall paralyses life in Kolkata: IMD warns of more rain; airlines issue travel advisories

NEW DELHI: Kolkata and its surrounding areas were thrown into chaos on Tuesday after very heavy showers overnight left several parts of the city inundated under knee-deep water and disrupted traffic.

Airlines also issued travel advisories following warnings from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) of likely heavy rainfall in multiple south Bengal districts.Water entered several houses and residential complexes as roads went underwater due to rain that began past midnight.The southern and eastern parts of the city received the heaviest downpour, with Garia Kamdahari recording 332 mm in a few hours, followed by Jodhpur Park at 285 mm, Kalighat at 280 mm, Topsia at 275 mm, Ballygunge at 264 mm, and Thantania in north Kolkata receiving 195 mm, according to the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC).

The IMD said a low-pressure area over the northeast Bay of Bengal is likely to move northwestwards, bringing widespread light to moderate rain with isolated heavy to very heavy showers across south Bengal districts.Heavy rainfall is expected in Purba Medinipur, Paschim Medinipur, South 24 Parganas, Jhargram, and Bankura till Wednesday.The IMD also warned that a fresh low-pressure area could form over the east-central and adjoining north Bay of Bengal around September 25, potentially causing further rain.

Residents have been advised to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel as city authorities monitor water-logging and traffic conditions.With heavy rainfall and thunderstorms forecasted over Kolkata, airlines have issued travel advisories for passengers.

Travelers are advised to plan their journeys accordingly and allow extra time for delays. Passengers should regularly check their flight status through the airline’s app or website before leaving for the airport.

(With inputs from agencies)