Is Waterlogging Causing Chaos in Bengaluru? BJP Criticizes Government for 'Celebrations Amidst Crisis'
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Bengaluru faced chaos as heavy rains caused extensive waterlogging, disrupting traffic and daily routines. The BJP criticized the state government for celebrating amidst the crisis. With key areas submerged, residents are calling for accountability and effective infrastructure solutions. Is the government doing enough to address these ongoing challenges?
Key Takeaways
- Bengaluru faced severe waterlogging due to heavy rainfall.
- Major roads and neighborhoods were significantly affected, causing traffic disruptions.
- The BJP criticized the state government for celebrating while the city suffers.
- Deputy Chief Minister expressed concern and commitment to long-term infrastructure solutions.
- Residents are demanding accountability and effective measures to prevent future crises.
Bengaluru, May 19 (NationPress) Intense rainfall that struck Bengaluru overnight resulted in significant waterlogging across multiple areas of the city on Monday, severely disrupting traffic and causing daily life to come to a standstill on the first working day of the week.
Major roads, tech parks, and neighborhoods were submerged, leading to extended delays for commuters during peak hours. Manyata Tech Park was among the hardest hit, prompting the Bengaluru Traffic Police to advise drivers to seek alternative routes.
Traffic issues were also observed in Mahadevapura, a hub for tech companies, as well as in Bommanahalli, Yelahanka, Bengaluru East Division, Shantinagar, and Koramangala. In lower-lying regions of the Nagawara ward within the Sarvajnanagar Assembly Constituency, residents had to evacuate as water seeped into their homes.
On the busy Outer Ring Road, a bus became inoperable due to water accumulation between BTM Layout 29th Main and Silk Board Junction. The Madiwala Traffic Police redirected vehicles through the Double Decker Flyover to alleviate congestion. Meanwhile, sluggish traffic was reported from Hebbal toward Badrappa Layout.
This deluge ignited a political controversy, with the BJP criticizing the Congress-led state government for allegedly overlooking Bengaluru’s infrastructure needs. State BJP General Secretary and MLA V. Sunil Kumar condemned the government, stating, “While Bengaluru is submerged, the government is preoccupied with celebrating its second anniversary.”
The Congress has organized a significant event in Hosapete, Ballari, on Tuesday to commemorate two years in power.
“Rainfall was forecasted, yet Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM D.K. Shivakumar are celebrating in Hosapete. What is there to celebrate when the city's infrastructure is failing?” Kumar questioned. “The government should publish a white paper detailing the actual infrastructure expenditures in Bengaluru over the past two years.”
Kumar challenged whether Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge endorsed “celebrating while citizens endure hardship.” He added, “Not a single Minister is present in Bengaluru. Flooded tech parks and submerged homes are testament to this government’s ineptitude.”
He further urged the CM and Deputy CM to visit the flood-impacted Silk Board Junction, asserting, “That’s where you’ll see your real contributions.”
In response, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, also in charge of Bengaluru Development, expressed his concern regarding the situation.
“I am deeply troubled by the devastation caused by relentless rains in Bengaluru. I have been in constant communication with officials and am actively monitoring the circumstances,” Shivakumar stated.
He mentioned that he would personally visit the BBMP War Room and flood-affected areas. “It must be clear – the problems we face today are not new; they’ve been neglected for years by successive administrations. The difference now is we are focusing on long-term, sustainable solutions rather than temporary measures,” he declared.
Point of View
The ongoing crisis in Bengaluru serves as a reminder of the critical need for sustainable urban infrastructure. While political blame games continue, it's essential to focus on long-term solutions that can prevent such crises from recurring. The residents deserve better, and accountability from those in power is paramount.
NationPress
09/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the waterlogging in Bengaluru?
Heavy rainfall overnight led to significant waterlogging across various parts of Bengaluru, disrupting traffic and daily life.
Which areas were most affected by the waterlogging?
Areas such as Manyata Tech Park, Mahadevapura, Bommanahalli, Yelahanka, and low-lying parts of Nagawara ward were among the worst hit.
What is the political response to the waterlogging crisis?
The BJP has criticized the Congress-led state government for neglecting infrastructure while celebrating its second anniversary.
What actions are being taken to address the situation?
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has expressed concern and is monitoring the situation closely, promising to focus on long-term solutions.
How are residents coping with the flooding?
Residents in affected areas have faced evacuation as water entered their homes, prompting calls for urgent infrastructure improvements.
