Bengaluru is expected to face continuous heavy rains and thunderstorms over the next two days, with local forecasts indicating cloudy skies and intermittent showers. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the city will experience light to moderate rains with some areas likely to experience heavier rains between October 15 and 17.

The rainfall, part of the fallout from the northeast monsoon currently lashing Chennai, is expected to cause disruption, with maximum and minimum temperatures hovering around 25°C and 20°C respectively.

The northeast monsoon, which mainly affects the southeast coast of India, causes significant rainfall in Chennai, and Bengaluru is now feeling the impact as this weather system moves inland.

The heavy rains have already caused waterlogging in various parts of the city, especially in low-lying areas, where traffic is slow. The Hebbal flyover leading to the airport also saw significant slowdowns due to continuous rains.

BBMP ISSUES ALERT AMID HEAVY RAIN

In response to the rains, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) in Bengaluru has issued an alert, calling on authorities to be on high alert. Chief Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath led a virtual meeting on Tuesday, October 15, advising all officials to remain prepared for any emergency and focus on flood-prone areas. He stressed the importance of rapid action, particularly in areas prone to waterlogging and potential flooding.

TRAFFIC DISRUPTIONS AND CLOGGEMENT

Waterlogging has already started affecting vehicular movement in many areas, including the Okkalipura underpass. BBMP reported that water is slowly draining from problem areas, but heavy rains continue to slow traffic in the city. The Hebbal flyover, one of the busiest routes, experiences heavy traffic jams due to congestion as well as slow traffic.

BBMP PREPARATION EFFORTS

The BBMP has implemented several measures to mitigate the effects of the rain. The BBMP commissioner has directed the road infrastructure department to inspect major roads and ensure that rainwater drains smoothly. He also stressed the need for continuous cleaning of waste near drainage grates to avoid further blockages.

Eight control rooms in Bangalore and one at the corporation’s head office have been set up to address citizen complaints. Residents can call the company’s hotline at 1533 to report problems such as standing water, fallen trees or waterlogged streets. BBMP Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath assured that the complaints would be addressed promptly.

CLEARING TREES AND PREVENTING FLOODS

Special teams are on standby to resolve any issues related to fallen trees or branches, while authorities are ensuring that water flows smoothly into Bangalore’s royal canals to prevent flooding.

As the fallout from the northeast monsoon in Chennai continues, Bengaluru remains on high alert, with BBMP actively monitoring the situation to minimize disruption. The city’s preparation and rapid response will be crucial to meet the challenges posed by continued downpours.