Heavy Rain in Bengaluru Turns Roads Into Rivers, Submerges Mall of Asia; Will Test Cricket Match Take Place?

Bengaluru: The city has been dealing with heavy rainfall and flooding over the past few days, bringing much of the city to a standstill. While the threat of severe rains has eased due to a change in the movement of a depression, light to moderate showers are expected to continue throughout the day. Despite the forecast, the city remains inundated in several areas, causing significant disruption for residents.

Flooding Hits Major AreasOn Tuesday, incessant rain submerged many parts of Bengaluru, leading to widespread flooding. The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) reported waterlogging in 52 areas, with water entering 142 homes. In Sri Sai Layout at Horamavu, residents like Neelufar Ahmad, whose home was flooded for the third consecutive year, expressed frustration. Despite promises of action by top officials, little has been done to address the recurring issue, leaving many residents to temporarily relocate.In Kendriya Vihar, an apartment complex in Yelahanka, water flooded the basement and entrance once again, echoing previous incidents of severe waterlogging in the area. North Bengaluru, particularly around Kogilu, Bagalur, and Ballari Road, was hit hard, with motorists struggling through flooded streets. Roads Turn Into RiversSeveral key roads across the city were flooded, including Mahatma Gandhi Road in the Central Business District and arterial roads in Mahadevapura, Yelahanka, and East Bengaluru. Areas surrounding Puttenahalli Lake on Doddaballapur Road were particularly affected, with flooding on both sides making it nearly impossible for vehicles to pass. Hebbal Flyover saw traffic moving at a snail’s pace throughout the day, causing further delays during peak hours.

Now, I would be able to tell my kids, "हम नदी पार करके office जाते थे"#BangaloreRains pic.twitter.com/BDxLMByrBc

— Disha Saini🌻 (@Saini01_Disha) October 15, 2024

At Bellandur Lake Road, which is already riddled with potholes, the rain made conditions worse, with motorists halting as water levels reached around four feet. Similarly, a portion of Manyata Tech Park was flooded, making it difficult for employees to navigate.In a dramatic incident on Belagere Road, a school bus was stranded in floodwaters, with children inside screaming for help. Local residents hired a tractor to rescue the children and safely tow the bus away. Phoenix Mall SubmergedBengaluru’s Phoenix Mall of Asia, located in the Yelahanka area, was also severely impacted. Massive thunderstorms on Tuesday left the mall’s entrance and parking lot waterlogged, making it difficult for visitors to access the site. The management is now working to drain the water and restore access.

North #Bengaluru's iconic landmark's back entry #BengaluruRains pic.twitter.com/mEBbxoghhV

— Anil Budur Lulla (@anil_lulla) October 15, 2024

Test Match at Chinnaswamy Stadium to Go AheadIn a small relief for cricket fans, the India vs New Zealand Test match scheduled to take place at Bengaluru’s Chinnaswamy Stadium is expected to go ahead. With the threat of heavy rains receding, the Karnataka Weatherman has indicated that conditions will be favourable for the match, allowing spectators to enjoy the game, as per a solo forecaster on X.

#KarnatakaRains #BengaluruRains #BangaloreRains #Bangalore #INDvNZ #INDvsNZ #BengaluruWeather #BangaloreWeather #BengaluruRain #BangaloreRain

BENGALURU CITY FORECAST TODAY

Due to weakening & a more Northward than Westward movement of Depression, the city is likely to witness… https://t.co/nQoEp5gZRc pic.twitter.com/iv488RrEyz

— Karnataka Weather (@Bnglrweatherman) October 16, 2024

Despite the ongoing showers, the city’s infrastructure is struggling to cope with the deluge. Flooded streets, traffic jams, and waterlogged homes continue to pose challenges for residents, with many hoping for a quick reprieve from the rains.