India’s Kolkata Hit By Record Rainfall, Leaves 10 Dead

At least 10 people have lost their lives after torrential rains battered Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, marking the heaviest downpour in nearly four decades.

Authorities confirmed that nine of the fatalities were linked to electrocution after floodwaters submerged several parts of the city.

Since Monday night, homes, shops, and major roadways across Kolkata and surrounding towns have been inundated. Rail traffic has also been severely disrupted, leaving thousands of commuters stranded and forcing many to walk through waist-deep water.

The timing has worsened concerns, as the city was preparing for Durga Puja, one of the most significant cultural and religious festivals in eastern India.

Weather officials reported that 251.4mm of rainfall was recorded in less than a day, the highest single-day total since 1986 and the sixth-largest in the state’s history over the last 137 years. The meteorological department attributed the downpour to a low-pressure system over the northeast Bay of Bengal.

Authorities have warned that more rain is expected through the week, keeping the city on high alert.

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee admitted she had “never seen such rain” and expressed sorrow over the deaths, pledging financial assistance to affected families.

Because most of the casualties resulted from electrocution, power supply was deliberately cut in many neighborhoods to reduce further risk.

Rescue teams and civic workers have been deployed, with efforts underway to clear waterlogged areas and restore essential services.