Kolkata, often called the cultural capital of India, is facing a serious challenge just days before Durga Puja 2025. Continuous heavy rainfall since Monday night has triggered flooding in several parts of the city, raising concerns for the grand festival preparations. Streets in areas like Dum Dum, Behala, Tollygunge, and North Kolkata were waterlogged, bringing traffic and daily life to a crawl.
β‘ Disruption in Daily Life
The heavy showers have led to:
- Severe traffic congestion during office hours
- Waterlogging in low-lying neighborhoods
- Power cuts in some parts of South Kolkata
- Shortage of fresh vegetables in markets due to disrupted supply chains
Residents are worried that if the rains continue, Durga Puja pandal construction and decorations could face major delays. Some local organizers have already deployed pumps to clear water from pandal sites.
πΈ Durga Puja Preparations Under Threat
Durga Puja, the biggest festival of Bengal, is not just a religious celebration but also a showcase of art, creativity, and community spirit. With only a few weeks left, artisans and workers are racing against time to finish idols and elaborate pandals. Heavy rains are dampening the mood, as incomplete structures risk damage from waterlogging.
Puja committees, however, remain optimistic. βWe are hopeful the weather will clear up in the coming days. Work has slowed down but not stopped,β said a member of a popular North Kolkata puja committee.
π’ IMD Forecast & Government Response
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the city is likely to experience more heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours, owing to a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal. The West Bengal government has issued an advisory, asking citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and urging puja organizers to take extra precautions.
Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has activated its emergency response teams with pumps placed in flood-prone zones. Still, the public remains concerned about how quickly normalcy can be restored.
π Will the Spirit of Puja Remain Unshaken?
Despite the challenges, the people of Kolkata remain resilient. Markets are buzzing with last-minute shopping, and many believe the festive spirit will eventually overcome the weather hurdles. After all, Durga Puja has always been about triumph over adversityβand this year, it may symbolize overcoming both rain and flooding.