Building collapse, flooded roads, traffic snarls: Rain batters Bengaluru

Karnataka experienced unprecedented rainfall, the heaviest in over a century, according to Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. He stated on Wednesday that Bengaluru and Yelahanka have not seen such rainfall in the past 120 years. "We never anticipated such heavy rains. Have never seen such rains in the last 115 to 120 years. We are identifying areas where water is entering and making arrangements to ensure the smooth flow of water," Shivakumar said.

Heavy rains in Bengaluru caused significant traffic issues, particularly at the Electronics City flyover. Commuters were left stuck for over two hours on Wednesday evening. Photos and videos on social media showed people abandoning their vehicles and heading home on foot. The Bengaluru traffic police had to shut down one side of the flyover, creating the long delays.

Shivakumar visited several rain-affected areas, including Kendriya Vihar in Yelahanka, Mariyannapalya in Byatarayanapura, and Sri Sai Layout in Horamavu, KR Puram, along with BBMP officials.
He reviewed the relief operations and discussed the situation with members of the residents' associations. He also gathered information on rescue efforts from the SDRF and NDRF teams and instructed BBMP officials to provide necessary amenities to relocated residents.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday inspected the site of the building collapse at Huramavu Agara area of Bengaluru.
According to official sources, the collapse on Tuesday had claimed the lives of 8 people, and injured 6 others.

Currently, the BBMP has taken charge of the rescue operations there. Around 95 per cent of the residents have cooperated with relocation efforts. However, 20 families have refused to leave despite the lack of electricity, saying they will stay, he informed.

The Karnakata CM further announced Rs 5 lakh ex-gratia to the kin of the deceased, while ex-gratia for the injured will be given after seeing them in the hospital.

Residents of Bengaluru can expect more rain over the next 24 hours, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The department has issued a yellow alert for the city, predicting a generally cloudy sky with moderate rainfall and occasional heavy spells. Maximum and minimum temperatures are likely to hover around 30°C and 20°C, respectively.