Kolkata Drowns in Deluge: Heavy Rains Spur Widespread Waterlogging Just Days Before Durga Puja

Kolkata, the City of Joy, finds itself grappling with a grim reality as incessant heavy rainfall has brought large swathes of the metropolis to a grinding halt. Just days before the much-anticipated Durga Puja — a festival that transforms the city into a vibrant spectacle of devotion and celebration — widespread waterlogging has plunged daily life into chaos, casting a pall over the festive spirit.

From the bustling thoroughfares of Central Kolkata to the residential lanes of South and North, streets have transformed into virtual rivers.

Commuters faced immense hardship, with public transport services severely disrupted and vehicles navigating through knee-deep water. The iconic yellow taxis, a symbol of Kolkata, were seen struggling through submerged roads, and many chose to stay off the waterlogged streets entirely, leaving thousands stranded.

The timing of this deluge couldn't be more unfortunate.

Durga Puja is not merely a festival; it's an emotion that electrifies Kolkata, bringing families together, inspiring stunning art installations in pandals, and fueling local economies. The sight of submerged streets, choked drains, and the struggle to move around has understandably sparked anxiety among residents and festival organizers alike.

Concerns are mounting over the potential damage to pandal structures, the disruption of idol transportation, and the overall dampened atmosphere for what is usually the city's grandest annual event.

Meteorological reports indicate that the city might not see immediate respite, with forecasts suggesting the possibility of more rainfall in the coming days.

This adds another layer of worry, as continuous downpours could exacerbate the already dire situation, making the task of draining water and restoring normalcy even more challenging.

While civic authorities are reportedly working to clear waterlogged areas, the sheer volume of rainfall has overwhelmed the city's drainage systems.

Residents are urged to exercise caution, and many are hoping for a swift change in weather patterns to allow for a joyous, unhindered celebration of Durga Puja, a festival that truly defines the spirit of Kolkata.