Kolkata Drenched: Monsoon Fury Brings City to a Standstill, More Rain Ahead

South Bengal, including the city, faced relentless rain from as early as July 8, 2025, resulting in huge waterlogging and commuter inconvenience. The India Meteorological Department has issued a warning for continued rains and thunderstorms over the state until July 9 morning.

Rain disruption and impact:

Kolkata received 81.6 mm of rainfall, and Salt Lake received 88.3 mm; Uluberia under Howrah received the highest 111 mm in 24 hours.

City regions like Garden Reach, Behala, Ultadanga, and Ballygunge were flooded with water, with automobiles floating in water and traffic congested.

Public transport such as buses, trams were severely delayed; airport-bound people were asked to depart in advance as roads were congested.

Weather forecasts and warnings:

IMD predicted light to moderate rain with sporadic heavy spells in Kolkata, Howrah, Purulia, Jhargram, and South 24 Parganas.

A low-pressure system over Gangetic West Bengal is bringing the rain, and it will more than likely move northwestward in the next 48 hours.

Strong gusty winds of 40 kmph or more are expected to accompany the showers, raising concerns of tree falls and electricity failures.

Civic response and advisories:

Kolkata Municipal Corporation dispatched suction pumps and emergency personnel to drain water-logged areas.

Residents are urged to avoid low-lying areas and monitor weather updates; schools in affected districts may remain closed.

With growing intensity of monsoon, southern Bengal makes preparations for wetter days and city woes.

Sources: PTI, The Indian Express, Hindustan Times, ABP Live, IMD Bulletin