A deep depression over the Bay of Bengal has triggered torrential rains across West Bengal, leaving key parts of Kolkata submerged and prompting urgent safety warnings for several districts.
- A deep depression over the Bay of Bengal is causing widespread flooding in Kolkata and surrounding districts.
- IMD has issued an 'extremely heavy rain' alert for Purulia, Bankura, and West Burdwan, with rainfall potentially exceeding 20 cm.
- Kolkata ports are on high alert with Local Cautionary Signal No. 3 hoisted, warning fishermen to avoid the sea.
The city of Kolkata and several districts of South Bengal were plunged into chaos on Monday morning as a well-marked low-pressure system in the Northwest Bay of Bengal rapidly intensified into a depression. This meteorological shift, combined with an active monsoon trough, has resulted in relentless downpours that have paralyzed urban movement and threatened rural infrastructure.
According to the Alipore Regional Meteorological Centre, the depression was centered near Kolkata around 8:30 am and is projected to move northwestward across Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Bihar over the next 24 hours. The intensity of the system has led the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue high-level alerts, particularly for the western districts of South Bengal.
Regional Rainfall Forecast
The IMD has categorized the risk levels across the region to help citizens and authorities prepare. While most of South Bengal expects heavy to very heavy rain, certain pockets are at extreme risk.
| Region/District | Expected Rainfall/Wind | Alert Level |
|---|---|---|
| Purulia, Bankura, West Burdwan | Exceeding 20 cm | Extremely Heavy |
| South Bengal (General) | 7-20 cm | Heavy to Very Heavy |
| North Bengal (Darjeeling, etc.) | 7-11 cm | Heavy Rain |
| Coastal Districts | 40-50 kmph winds | Squally Weather |
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that Kolkata's recurring struggle with waterlogging despite urban drainage projects highlights a critical vulnerability in the city's infrastructure against intensifying climate patterns. The convergence of a deep depression and a monsoon trough creates a 'perfect storm' scenario that tests the limits of municipal readiness.
The rapid intensification of low-pressure systems in the Bay of Bengal is becoming more frequent, necessitating a shift from reactive drainage to proactive urban water management.
The impact on the ground has been severe. Major thoroughfares including Central Avenue, Mahatma Gandhi Road, and Park Circus Connector witnessed knee-deep water, leading to massive traffic snarls. Numerous vehicles broke down as water entered engines, leaving commuters stranded. In coastal belts like South 24 Parganas, there are grave concerns regarding the destruction of kutcha roads and thatched structures.
Maritime activities have also been halted. Local Cautionary Signal No. 3 remains hoisted at Kolkata and Haldia ports, with a strict advisory for fishermen to avoid venturing into the sea due to gusty winds reaching up to 60 kmph in the North Bay of Bengal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which districts are under the 'extremely heavy rain' alert?
Purulia, Bankura, and West Burdwan are on high alert with expected rainfall exceeding 20 cm.
Q2: What safety precautions are advised by the authorities?
Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, steer clear of electric poles and trees during lightning, and avoid low-lying underpasses.
