Kolkata, September 23, 2025 – Heavy overnight rainfall, the heaviest in four decades, caused severe waterlogging across Kolkata, disrupting traffic, flights, rail services, and daily life just days before Durga Puja, West Bengal’s largest festival. The deluge, measuring 251.4 mm in under 24 hours, killed at least 10 people and brought the city to a standstill, PTI reported.
The unprecedented downpour, the sixth-highest single-day rainfall in 37 years and the highest since 1986, left large parts of Kolkata inundated, with some areas experiencing knee-to-waist-deep water. Authorities reported that the timing of the flood could not be worse, with Durga Puja celebrations set to begin over the weekend.
Transportation systems were severely affected. Operations at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport were disrupted, with 30 flights canceled and 42 delayed. Railway services were also impacted, with waterlogging reported at Howrah and Sealdah stations, as well as adjacent rail yards, causing delays and complications in train operations. Eastern Railway deployed water pumps to manage the flooding, but high water levels in surrounding areas hampered relief efforts.
Traffic across the city came to a virtual standstill as roads were submerged, leaving vehicles stranded for hours at key intersections. Residents faced immense difficulties, with power outages reported in several areas due to electrocution-related fatalities.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed deep concern over the situation. “I have never seen rain like this… it is so unfortunate that people have lost their lives. Their families must all be given jobs by the Calcutta Electric Supply Corporation Limited (CESC Ltd.),” she said, adding that she was closely monitoring the crisis and coordinating with police and the Chief Secretary. The Chief Minister also voiced concern for Durga Puja pandals, urging the electricity supplier to ensure safety and uninterrupted services during the festival.
