A stationary low-pressure system has triggered severe waterlogging and traffic chaos across Kolkata and South Bengal, disrupting daily commutes and school operations.
- Severe waterlogging reported in Kolkata and South Bengal due to a stationary low-pressure system.
- Kalaikunda recorded the highest rainfall at 51mm, while Salt Lake saw 40mm.
- Heavy rain forecasts extend to sub-Himalayan districts including Darjeeling and Kalimpong until September 4.
The state capital, Kolkata, and several districts of South Bengal were brought to a standstill on Tuesday as a relentless downpour lashed the region. The meteorological trigger was a well-marked low-pressure system positioned over Gangetic West Bengal, adjoining the northwest Bay of Bengal and north coastal Odisha. This system remained virtually stationary, ensuring a continuous supply of moisture and heavy precipitation that overwhelmed the city's drainage infrastructure.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the rainfall distribution was significant across the region. Kalaikunda in Paschim Medinipur emerged as the hardest-hit area, recording a maximum of 51 mm of rainfall in 24 hours. In the urban sprawl, Salt Lake recorded 40 mm, while the heart of Kolkata saw 23 mm. Other affected areas included Panagarh (50 mm), Barrackpore (43 mm), and Canning (44 mm), highlighting the widespread nature of the weather disturbance.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that the recurring nature of urban flooding in Kolkata, despite various drainage projects, points to a systemic failure in managing extreme precipitation events. The stationary nature of the low-pressure system amplified the impact, turning routine office-hour commutes into a logistical nightmare and exposing the vulnerability of the city's low-lying zones.
"The stationary nature of the low-pressure area over the coastal belt creates a 'stalling effect,' leading to concentrated rainfall that exceeds the hourly discharge capacity of urban drains."
The disruption was most felt by students and office-goers, as major thoroughfares transformed into streams. Traffic snarls were reported across the city, with vehicular movement slowing to a crawl. The IMD has indicated that while the system is expected to move west-northwestward by Wednesday morning, the threat remains potent for the northern regions.
Looking ahead, the weather office has predicted continued heavy rainfall in the sub-Himalayan belt. Districts such as Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar are on high alert, with warnings of heavy rain persisting until September 4, which could potentially lead to landslides in hilly terrains.
| Location | Rainfall Recorded (mm) | Impact Level |
|---|---|---|
| Kalaikunda | 51 mm | High |
| Panagarh | 50 mm | Moderate-High |
| Salt Lake | 40 mm | Severe (Urban) |
| Kolkata | 23 mm | Severe (Traffic) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Until when is the heavy rain forecast for South Bengal?
The IMD expects the current low-pressure system to move by Wednesday morning, though rain may persist in some pockets.
Q2: Which northern districts are at risk?
Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Alipurduar, and Cooch Behar are expected to receive heavy rain until September 4.
