Bengaluru, Karnataka: Heavy rains lashed several parts of Bengaluru on Friday evening, triggering waterlogging and traffic congestion across multiple localities. The sudden downpour began during the evening rush hours, severely impacting vehicular movement and daily activities.
Areas such as Electronic City, Neeladri Nagar, Koramangala, BTM Layout, and parts of Whitefield witnessed significant water accumulation on major roads. Commuters were stranded for hours as vehicles moved slowly through flooded stretches. In some locations, two-wheelers were seen struggling to navigate knee-deep water.
According to early reports, the rainfall lasted for over an hour in parts of the city, accompanied by strong winds and lightning. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) stated that Bengaluru and surrounding regions are likely to experience more rain and thunderstorms over the weekend due to the prevailing monsoon conditions across South Interior Karnataka.
Officials from the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) said that emergency teams were mobilised to clear clogged drains and manage traffic at key junctions. The civic body also received multiple complaints from residents about overflowing stormwater drains and flooding in basements of residential buildings, particularly in the southern and eastern zones.
A BBMP official noted that the city’s stormwater drainage network is being continuously monitored. “Our field staff have been instructed to remain on alert through the night. Water pumps have been deployed in low-lying areas to prevent prolonged flooding,” the official said.
The city’s traffic police issued advisories urging commuters to avoid waterlogged areas and follow diversions where necessary. Authorities also cautioned against parking vehicles under trees or near construction sites due to the risk of falling branches and debris during heavy winds.
Residents in several neighbourhoods reported power cuts and disruptions in internet connectivity as a result of the storm. Energy department officials said restoration work was underway and most outages would be resolved by early morning.
Meanwhile, the IMD has forecast continued rainfall for the next three to four days, with occasional heavy spells in isolated parts of the city. “A trough over South Interior Karnataka and moisture incursion from the Arabian Sea are contributing to the current weather pattern,” an IMD spokesperson explained.
Experts have reiterated the need for improved urban drainage systems in Bengaluru, which faces repeated flooding during the monsoon. Despite multiple infrastructure projects, several key localities remain vulnerable to heavy rain. Urban planners have urged the authorities to accelerate desilting of stormwater drains and enhance rainwater harvesting to mitigate future crises.
Residents are advised to stay updated with weather bulletins and exercise caution while travelling during heavy rainfall.
