Sunday, March 23, 2025
Bengaluru hit by severe pre-monsoon showers, causing widespread disruptions and major flight diversions at Kempegowda International Airport.
On Wednesday, Bengaluru was hit by powerful pre-monsoon downpours that wreaked havoc across the city. Kempegowda International Airport experienced major disruptions due to the intense rain, leading to the diversion of at least 10 flights bound for Bengaluru to Chennai as a result of low visibility and hazardous landing conditions. The most severe rainfall was recorded in the eastern, northern, and northeastern sections of Bengaluru, causing urban flooding and significant delays in travel.
The city faced major traffic jams and waterlogging in crucial areas. Notably, Hunsmaranahalli near Kempegowda International Airport Road saw substantial water accumulation that impeded traffic. The Bengaluru Traffic Police stepped in to remove obstructions on the airport flyover. Additionally, Rupen Agrahara along Hosur Road was also heavily affected by waterlogging, which slowed down vehicle traffic considerably.
In response to the conditions, airlines like Air India and IndiGo issued travel advisories, suggesting passengers verify their flight statuses before departing for the airport. The situation was particularly severe in Kasturi Nagar near the M.M.T. Bus Stand, where traffic toward KR Puram, Mahadevapura, and Whitefield was heavily impacted. Yelahanka recorded 45.4 mm of rain by early evening, leading to numerous civic complaints about the extensive waterlogging. Furthermore, BIAL Airport Road logged 64.5 mm of rain, creating serious traffic jams.
While the southwest of Bengaluru stayed relatively unaffected, other regions like Horamavu and Doddagubbi received 41 mm and 33 mm of rainfall respectively. The Outer Ring Road and low-lying areas also faced considerable flooding, sparking complaints from residents about ongoing issues with waterlogging.
The city’s residents expressed their dissatisfaction with Bengaluru’s drainage infrastructure and city planning on social media. Bengaluru Central MP PC Mohan posted a video showing the inundated Outer Ring Road, lamenting the city’s response to the first summer rain and urging the BBMP to take swift action before the monsoon season intensifies.
