Bengaluru’s roads and infrastructure were tested once again on Monday as the city experienced steady rainfall, leading to widespread disruptions. While the rain itself was not torrential, its effects were felt deeply across various parts of the city. Roads in areas like Jayanagar 4th Block and Malleswaram saw multiple instances of tree falls, while waterlogged streets caused severe traffic snarls. As commuters struggled with delays, public transport options like autorickshaws and cabs became increasingly scarce, with fares surging during peak hours. One commuter from Whitefield noted a 100-rupee increase in her fare, adding to the frustration of navigating through flooded streets.
The rain also caused significant inconvenience for residents, with several companies urging employees to work from home. In a city with already congested roads, the additional pressure of waterlogged streets resulted in delays and frustration for thousands. A digital marketing professional from Gunjur shared his experience of taking over an hour to cover just 7.4 km, underscoring the inefficiency of Bengaluru’s transport infrastructure during adverse weather. Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic) confirmed that areas like Kasturinagar and Marathahalli were affected by mild waterlogging, but noted that this was far less severe compared to the October deluge.
However, the rain’s impact was not limited to traffic. A tragic incident occurred in Padarayanapura, where a 50-year-old mud house collapsed due to the rains. The elderly couple residing in the house narrowly escaped with minor injuries, but the incident highlighted the vulnerability of informal housing in Bengaluru. The collapse raises crucial questions about the safety of low-income households in the city’s sprawling urban landscape. The civic administration’s ability to manage such risks has been brought into sharp focus as the population continues to grow.
The recurring disruptions caused by rainfall are a stark reminder of Bengaluru’s underlying infrastructure challenges. From poor drainage systems to informal housing in vulnerable areas, the city’s urban planning must evolve to keep pace with its rapid growth. Sustainability must be at the core of future developments, with a focus on resilient infrastructure, proper waste management, and flood control. As climate change intensifies, cities like Bengaluru need to invest in adaptive measures to safeguard both its residents and its infrastructure, ensuring a more sustainable and liveable environment.
