Overnight downpour and continuous rain in Bengaluru throws normal life out of gear

Bengaluru experienced heavy overnight rains on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, resulting in widespread waterlogging across the city, particularly near Kodigehalli and Yelahanka underpasses. The downpour caused significant damage, with the GKVK compound wall collapsing near Judicial Layout and water entering several residential complexes in Kodigehalli.

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Residents of Kendriya Vihar apartments in Yelahanka, who have been enduring repeated flooding, were advised to evacuate as water levels rose dramatically. In some areas, water reached up to six feet, leaving parts of northern Bengaluru, such as Tatanagar and Hebbal Sarovara, submerged. Power outages were also reported in the affected areas.

The heavy rainfall disrupted operations at Kempegowda International Airport, with 20 delayed arrivals and several flight diversions, including flights from Delhi, Hyderabad, Chandigarh, and Bangkok.

Bengaluru Urban Deputy Commissioner Jagadish G. had ordered the closure of schools and Anganwadi centers on Monday. Revenue Minister Krishna Byregowda visited several affected areas, noting that Doddabommasandra Lake had overflowed for the first time in 17 years, causing severe flooding.

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has placed Bengaluru and South Interior Karnataka on yellow alert, forecasting continued rainfall and thundershowers over the next 48 hours. Relief efforts, including boat rescues, were underway in Yelahanka, with BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath overseeing operations.