As Durga Puja—the most celebrated festival in Kolkata—approaches, the city often faces a parallel challenge: heavy rains and waterlogging. This year’s deluge has put the spotlight on Kolkata’s urban flood preparedness and its ability to handle extreme weather during peak festive season.
Why Kolkata Floods During Durga Puja
Low-Lying Areas: Many neighborhoods sit below river level.
Aging Drainage Infrastructure: Outdated systems struggle with sudden heavy downpours.
Urban Expansion: Encroachment on wetlands reduces natural drainage.
Impacts on Festivities & Public Life
Disruption of Pandals & Processions: Flooded grounds affect idol installations.
Health Concerns: Stagnant water raises the risk of vector-borne diseases.
Traffic Jams: Commuters face delays and hazards.
Steps Toward Urban Flood Preparedness
Upgrading Drainage Networks: Regular desilting and expansion projects.
Rainwater Harvesting: Reducing run-off pressure on municipal drains.
Real-Time Alerts: Using weather and flood forecasting apps for citizens.
Community Involvement: Training local volunteers in emergency response.
Government & Civic Initiatives
Kolkata Municipal Corporation has been investing in pumping stations, stormwater drains, and GIS-based flood-mapping to mitigate damage. However, implementation gaps remain.
What Residents Can Do
Avoid littering drains.
Stay updated on civic advisories during heavy rain.
Prepare emergency kits and safe routes for travel.
Conclusion
Kolkata’s repeated deluges ahead of Durga Puja highlight an urgent need for robust, climate-resilient urban planning. With rising rainfall intensity due to climate change, the city must accelerate flood preparedness to protect both lives and its cultural heritage.
FAQs
Q1. Why does Kolkata experience heavy flooding before Durga Puja?
Low-lying areas, clogged drains, and increased rainfall during the monsoon contribute to pre-Puja flooding.
Q2. How do floods affect Durga Puja celebrations?
Flooding hampers idol installations, pandal construction, and public mobility, disrupting the festival’s vibrancy.
Q3. What measures are being taken to improve flood preparedness?
Upgraded drainage systems, pumping stations, and real-time weather alerts are being introduced by civic bodies.
Q4. How can residents help reduce urban flooding?
By not dumping waste into drains, participating in community clean-ups, and following civic advisories during rains.
Q5. Is climate change worsening Kolkata’s flooding?
Yes. Increased intensity and unpredictability of rainfall linked to climate change amplify flood risks in the city.
Published on : 24th September
Published by : SMITA
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