Cool showers, chaotic streets: Two sides of sudden rain in Bengaluru

Bengaluru: Rain was expected Wednesday, but no one expected the fury that it unleashed. The nearly 40-minute downpour threw life out of gear, especially for those in central and eastern parts of the city, who were desperately waiting for respite from the searing summer heat. With localities flooded and roads inundated, thousands of people returning home from offices were stranded at Metro stations, outside workplaces and at bus stops, as rainwater rose above ankle level in some places. With IMD issuing an orange alert, residents are questioning whether the city is prepared for rain.Rahul Goyal, a trader on SJP Road, said: "We want to know what precautions govt has taken to prevent flooding. The most worrisome issue is that dug-up roads, potholes and open manholes pose a danger to both vehicles and pedestrians. Desilting of drains should be undertaken immediately and the muck should not be left on the roads. SJP Road is completely flooded, making it very difficult to travel."Dakshinya P, a non-IT professional from Mahadevapura, said: "It was raining just as I was about to leave office. I was happy to see the rain but I never expected the city to face waterlogging so quickly. It barely lasted an hour and the path from my bus stop to home was already flooded. Shouldn't officials try to solve the problem instead of relying on patchwork solutions?" Many persons found their two-wheelers and cars partially submerged in rainwater in areas such as Sultanpet and Kamaraj Road. Pedestrians too struggled to navigate, unsure of uncovered manholes and open slabs on pavements. On the other side, those who stayed indoors and remained unaffected by rain damage expressed relief as a cool breeze swept across the city, with cloudy skies replacing the harsh sun.Vihan Raj from Whitefield said: "Rain was much needed after the heat we endured this month. I travelled to Koramangala for my internship and the heat was always an issue while commuting. But now the city will cool down and I can travel without getting tired."Misha Baniya, a student from SG Palya, said: "Rain brings freshness to life. The earthy aroma and cool winds calm me down."
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