greater bengaluru authority

Bengaluru experienced its wettest April day on Wednesday, with over 11cm of rain, equivalent to nearly 10% of its annual rainfall. This deluge, estimated at 20-22 million cubic metres, could have met the city's water needs for a fortnight.

Bengaluru faced chaos after heavy rains and hailstorms hit the city. Squally winds uprooted trees and snapped branches, leading to traffic standstill. Power outages affected large areas as thousands of distress calls flooded the electricity helpline. Electrical infrastructure sustained significant damage. Authorities are working to restore normalcy and address flood-prone areas.

Around 50 women narrowly escaped a major fire in Bengaluru's Nandini Layout by jumping from their PG accommodation. The blaze, originating in an LED banner godown, spread rapidly, trapping residents. Their courageous decision to jump from the building prevented a potential tragedy, with only minor injuries reported.

Biocon chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw received assurance from Union Minister Nitin Gadkari that Hosur Road in Hebbagodi will be repaired by month-end. This follows Shaw's public criticism of the road's poor condition. Meanwhile, over 1,000 Biocon employees have transitioned to public transport as part of a corporate initiative to ease Bengaluru's traffic congestion.

Bengaluru's lakes are drying up due to high temperatures, a natural phenomenon activists say offers a crucial opportunity for restoration. This summer drying allows for waste removal and desilting, essential for ecological balance and groundwater recharge before the monsoon. Experts warn against artificial water maintenance, which can harm natural cycles and soil quality.