Relentless Rain Disrupts Normal Life in Bhubaneswar; 101 mm Rainfall Causes Waterlogging on Roads and NH

Bhubaneswar: Sept 25 [UDN}:The capital city witnessed heavy rainfall on Thursday under the influence of a low-pressure system, disrupting normal life across several areas. Bhubaneswar recorded 101 mm of rainfall in 24 hours, leading to severe waterlogging on major roads and traffic congestion at several locations.

With rainwater failing to drain out quickly, many roads were submerged under knee-deep water. The Master Canteen–Rajmahal stretch, including the road connecting to the Chief Minister’s Grievance Cell, witnessed significant waterlogging, causing difficulties for commuters and slowing traffic movement.

In view of the traffic congestion, vehicles from the Rajmahal area were diverted through AG Square. The condition of Cuttack Road, one of the city’s major commercial corridors, also deteriorated following the heavy downpour.

Waterlogging was reported in front of Kochilei Haat at Rasulgarh. On the Bomikhal road, ongoing drain-related work reportedly hampered the flow of rainwater, resulting in a strong current of water flowing over the road. Motorcyclists and car drivers faced considerable difficulties while navigating the stretch.

Several other areas, including Jharpada, Shantinagar and Chintamaniswar near the petrol pump, also experienced water accumulation. Even the Janpath road in front of the BMC office was affected by waterlogging. Water was also reported to have accumulated near the Satyanagar crematorium, while roads in Saubhagyanagar and Rasulgarh Satyavihar remained waterlogged.

The National Highway was also affected. Waist-deep water was reported on the CRP stretch of the NH, disrupting traffic movement. Commuters also faced difficulties at the underpass beneath the Pahal NH overbridge, where accumulated rainwater made movement difficult.

The heavy rain was accompanied by winds of relatively low intensity. Reports from several parts of the city indicated that trees were uprooted and branches broke and fell onto roads. The rain and wind also led to power outages in several parts of the capital.

According to the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC), at least 19 low-lying areas of the city were affected by waterlogging. BMC teams, along with the Fire Services Department, deployed water pumps to drain accumulated water from the affected locations.

Officials and field teams remained present at several locations until late at night to monitor the situation and oversee water-drainage and emergency-response operations.