Kolkata Airport Disrupted by Flooded Runway

Kolkata’s Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport faced significant disruption on Saturday as persistent heavy rainfall resulted in severe waterlogging on its runway. The deluge, which has affected key areas such as Howrah, Salt Lake, and Barrackpore, was triggered by a deep depression formed from a low-pressure system over Jharkhand and Gangetic West Bengal.

According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), the downpour is expected to continue throughout the day, exacerbating the waterlogging issues. The heavy rainfall has also led to substantial water accumulation in central and southern Kolkata, with reports indicating ankle-deep water in several streets. Despite the inundation, traffic flow has largely remained unaffected, although some areas have recorded up to 7 cm of rainfall since Friday afternoon.

The IMD’s meteorological experts attributed the heavy rainfall to an active monsoon trough over southern West Bengal, coupled with the movement of the deep depression towards Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. This climatic phenomenon has intensified rainfall across the region, contributing to the flooding at the airport and in surrounding districts. Authorities are currently managing the situation at the airport, focusing on mitigating the impact of the waterlogging.

The airport’s operational status remains under scrutiny as efforts continue to address the flooding and ensure the safety and efficiency of flight operations. Meanwhile, residents in the affected areas are advised to remain cautious and stay updated with weather alerts as the heavy rains persist. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges posed by monsoon-related weather patterns, necessitating robust infrastructure and emergency response measures to manage such natural calamities effectively.