Kolkata Rains: 9 dead due to electrocution, over 30 flights cancelled, schools closed

Kolkata Rains: Atleast 9 people died of electrocution in Kolkata due to heavy rains on Tuesday. Incessant rains in the city disrupted not just the normal life of the people but also the ongoing puja celebration in Kolkata. Heavy rains resulted in heavy waterlogging, traffic jam, train and flight operation disruptions. Severe rain caused waterlogging in several areas such as Kalighat, Garia Kamdahari, Jodhpur Park. Due to heavy rains, metro services were also disrupted in the city. 

Schools in Kolkata to remain close for two days

Due to heavy rainfall in the city, authorities have announced to keep the schools closed on September 24 and 25. The decision was taken to ensure proper safety of students amid the rainfall and waterlogging across the city.

Kolkata metro service disrupted

Following the heavy rainfall in the city, waterlogging was witnessed in the mid-section of the Blue Line, mainly between Mahanayak Uttam Kumar and Rabindra Sarobar stations, resulting into the suspension of services on this route, according to the news agency PTI report. As per a spokesperson for Metro Railway Kolkata, "Truncated services are being run between Dakshineswar and Maidan stations." He further added that normal service could be resumed soon as water is being pumped out, and staff are continously trying to resolve the issue. 

Durga puja preparations disrupted

Due to the heavy rain in the city, durga puja preparations have been affected particularly in Howrah area. A Kolkata Municipal Corporation was quoted saying to HT, "We have received emergency instructions to run drainage pumps to clear the roads."

West Bengal Minister Shashi Panja Statement

Speaking about Kolkata weather report, West Bengal Minister Shashi Panja said, “There is waterlogging in some parts of Kolkata and some people have lost their lives as well. Kolkata Municipal Corporation is doing its work. CM Mamata Banerjee is taking all possible steps to overcome this situation.”

She was further added in her statement to ANI, "BJP is just opposing the state government on social media. When there was waterlogging in Delhi and Gurugram, there was no action from the BJP. Today, they are speaking a lot about the situation in Kolkata. We condemn politicisation of such an issue..."