Bhubaneswar, Sept 24: Heavy rainfall triggered by a low-pressure system lashed the capital city on Thursday, causing widespread waterlogging and traffic disruptions across several parts of Bhubaneswar. The city recorded a total of 101 mm of rainfall in 24 hours.
Several major roads were inundated as rainwater failed to drain properly, leaving stretches of the city submerged under knee-deep water.
Compared to the previous day, Bhubaneswar witnessed significantly heavier rainfall. Waterlogging was reported along the road from Master Canteen to Rajmahal Square, as well as on the road connecting Rajmahal Square with the Chief Minister’s Grievance Cell. The accumulation of water severely affected vehicular movement and led to traffic congestion. In view of the situation, vehicles from Rajmahal were diverted through AG Square.
The situation was particularly difficult along Cuttack Road, one of the city’s major commercial corridors. Water accumulated near the Kochilei Haat area in Rasulgarh, while ongoing drain construction work reportedly hampered the flow of rainwater near Bamikhhal. As a result, large volumes of water flowed over the road, causing difficulties for two-wheeler riders and motorists.
Waterlogging was also reported near the Shantinagar-Chintamaniswar petrol pump in Jharpada. Even Janpath in front of the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) office was affected. Water accumulated near the Satya Nagar crematorium, while roads in Saubhagya Nagar and Rasulgarh’s Satya Vihar were also inundated.
National Highway stretches were not spared either. Water reportedly rose to waist level on the CRP National Highway, creating serious difficulties for commuters. People also faced problems while passing through the underpass beneath the Pahala NH overbridge.
Accompanied by light winds, the heavy rain also resulted in trees being uprooted at some locations, while branches fell on roads in several areas. Power supply was disrupted in parts of the capital due to the adverse weather conditions.
According to the BMC, 19 low-lying areas of the city were affected by waterlogging. The civic body, along with the Fire Services Department, deployed water pumps to drain the accumulated water. Officials remained on the ground until late at night to monitor the situation and oversee the drainage operations.
