Chennai rain effect in Bengaluru: Constant drizzle causes flooding, traffic woes

Bengaluru is witnessing heavy rains as a spillover effect of the northeast monsoon lashing through Chennai and various parts of Tamil Nadu. Continuous rainfall has caused waterlogging and traffic delays in several areas of the city. The BBMP has issued an alert, taking steps to manage the situation.

In Short

• Chennai’s rainfall causes constant showers in Bengaluru
• Waterlogging and traffic problems at major spots across the city
• BBMP Commissioner instructs officials to remain on alert

Bengaluru is expected to face continued heavy rains and thundershowers over the next two days, with the local forecast indicating cloudy skies and intermittent downpours. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the city will experience light to moderate rains, with some areas likely to see heavier rainfall between October 15 to 17.

The rainfall, part of the spillover effect from the northeast monsoon currently lashing Chennai, is expected to cause disruptions, with maximum and minimum temperatures hovering around 25°C and 20°C, respectively.

The northeast monsoon, which primarily affects the southeastern coast of India, is causing significant rainfall in Chennai, and Bengaluru is now feeling the impact as this weather system moves inland.

The heavy rains have already caused waterlogging in various parts of the city, particularly in low lying areas, where traffic has been moving slowly. The Hebbal flyover leading to the airport also saw major slowdowns due to continuous rainfall.

BBMP ISSUES ALERT AMID HEAVY RAINFALL

In response to the rains, Bengaluru’s Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has issued an alert, urging officials to be on high alert. Chief Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath led a virtual meeting on Tuesday, October 15, advising all officials to stay prepared for any emergencies and to focus on flood-prone areas. He stressed the importance of swift action, especially in areas prone to waterlogging and potential flooding.

TRAFFIC DISRUPTIONS AND WATERLOGGING

Waterlogging has already begun to affect vehicular movement in many areas, including the Okkalipura underpass. BBMP has reported that water is slowly being drained from problem areas, but heavy rainfall continues to cause slow-moving traffic across the city. The Hebbal flyover, one of the busiest routes, is seeing significant congestion due to waterlogging as well as slow moving traffic.

BBMP'S PREPAREDNESS EFFORTS

The BBMP has implemented several measures to mitigate the effects of the rain. The BBMP Commissioner directed the road infrastructure department to inspect major roads and ensure that rainwater drains smoothly. He also emphasised the need for continuous cleaning of waste near drainage grates to prevent further blockages.

Eight control rooms across Bengaluru and one at the corporation head office have been set up to address citizens’ complaints. Residents can call the corporation helpline at 1533 to report issues like stagnant water, fallen trees, or waterlogged streets. BBMP Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath has assured that complaints will be addressed promptly.

TREE CLEARING AND FLOOD PREVENTION

Special teams are on standby to address any issues related to fallen trees or branches, while authorities are ensuring that water flows smoothly through Bengaluru’s royal canals to prevent flooding.

As the spillover effect from Chennai’s northeast monsoon continues, Bengaluru remains on high alert, with BBMP actively monitoring the situation to minimise disruptions. The city’s preparedness and swift response will be crucial in handling the challenges posed by the continuous downpours.