Bengaluru Rains: Here’s why city’s earlier flood hotspots see relief amid heavy rains

Bengaluru witnessed an unusual shift this monsoon as several flood-prone localities remained relatively dry despite a deluge of over 100 mm in a single day. Notably, Rainbow Drive Layout, Kendriya Vihar in Yelahanka, and the Outer Ring Road (ORR) stretch near EcoSpace—typically inundated during such downpours—experienced only minor waterlogging.

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This marked departure from past years is being credited to proactive civic interventions. Infrastructure upgrades and enhanced stormwater drainage systems appear to have paid off, helping avoid the usual scenes of submerged streets and stranded residents.

In Kendriya Vihar, home to about 2,500 residents, floodwaters were effectively diverted despite a nearby lake breach. A newly constructed drain linking Yelahanka Lake to Jakkur Lake has significantly improved water flow and prevented residential flooding, with benefits extending to local farmlands as well.

Rainbow Drive Layout, infamous for the dramatic rescues of 2022, only reported mild water stagnation this year. While measures like an automatic pump system and side drain have been implemented, authorities caution that these are temporary solutions and rely on continued community cooperation.

The EcoSpace section of ORR, known for its tech parks and recurring flood issues, has also seen improvement. Drain maintenance and roadwork have helped reduce waterlogging, though challenges persist due to blocked drains hidden beneath concrete slabs.

Of the 210 flood-prone areas identified by the BBMP, remedial work has been completed at 166 sites, with more underway—contributing to reduced flooding in areas like Marathahalli, Bellandur, Sarjapur, and Ibbalur.