Bengaluru’s traffic has come to a grinding halt as Cyclone Fengal sweeps through, bringing torrential rains and waterlogging. The Bengaluru City Traffic Police have issued a safety advisory, urging residents to drive cautiously amidst the downpour that has already led to severe congestion in areas like Rayasandra towards Anekal. The warning follows the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) prediction of heavy rains, placing Bengaluru and South Interior Karnataka on high alert. In case of emergencies, residents are advised to call the 112 helpline for immediate assistance.
Waterlogging and slow-moving traffic underscore the city’s perennial struggle with infrastructure inadequacies. Despite being India’s tech capital, Bengaluru grapples with poor drainage systems that fail to manage the rising monsoon challenges. With relative humidity peaking at 91% and a wind speed of 91 km/h on Monday, the weather has worsened conditions, leaving many stranded. Experts argue that this is a stark reminder of the need for resilient urban planning and sustainable transport solutions to prevent such recurrent disruptions.
Cyclone Fengal’s trajectory has also raised concerns about the broader impact on civic infrastructure and environmental sustainability. Prolonged rains often exacerbate Bengaluru’s notorious traffic congestion, leading to higher fuel consumption and air pollution. As the IMD forecasts light to moderate rains till December 5, adopting eco-friendly commuting practices and alternative routes is essential to reduce the environmental toll. Emergency measures, such as deploying additional public transport, could alleviate immediate concerns while mitigating environmental damage.
This deluge is a wake-up call for Bengaluru’s policymakers and urban planners. Temporary measures cannot substitute for long-term investments in weather-resilient infrastructure and drainage systems. As climate change accelerates the frequency of extreme weather events, Bengaluru must prioritise holistic urban development to protect its residents from similar challenges in the future.
