Will the Met Office's Heavy Rain Forecast Disrupt Idol Immersion in Kolkata on Dashami?
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Synopsis
As Kolkata gears up for the grand celebration of Durga Puja, a weather forecast predicting heavy rain on Dashami poses a major concern for the idol immersion process. Civic authorities are on high alert to ensure safety during this festive period. Discover how the city plans to manage the challenges posed by nature.
Key Takeaways
- Heavy rainfall expected in Kolkata on Dashami.
- Potential disruption to idol immersion along the Hooghly river.
- Rainfall predictions range from 64.5 mm to over 115 mm.
- Civic authorities are taking precautionary measures for safety.
- Weather impacts several districts beyond Kolkata.
Kolkata, Oct 1 (NationPress) The Meteorological Department has issued a forecast for thunderstorms and rain in Kolkata, which may dampen the festive atmosphere as crowds gather at puja mandaps on the second last day of Durga Puja. On Dashami Thursday, heavy to very heavy rainfall is anticipated, potentially hindering the idol immersion along the banks of the Hooghly river.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) estimates that rainfall could vary from 64.5 mm (heavy) to over 115 mm (very heavy), which exacerbates the existing waterlogging situation and leads to traffic disruptions.
The IMD's latest bulletin indicates, “Light to moderate rain is very likely at most places, with heavy to very heavy rain (7–20 cm) at one or two places”; this affects districts such as South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, North 24 Parganas, and Hooghly.
Kolkata, along with the regions of Jhargram, Howrah, Nadia, and East Burdwan, is also set to experience heavy rainfall (7–11 cm) during Dashami. Additionally, gusty winds reaching 50 kmph and lightning are expected in coastal areas like East Midnapore and South 24 Parganas, while thunderstorms are forecasted in several southern Bengal districts on Wednesday.
In northern Bengal, regions including Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, Cooch Behar, South Dinajpur, and North Dinajpur are anticipated to undergo heavy to very heavy rainfall on October 2.
The IMD has released a public advisory warning of potential waterlogging in low-lying areas, traffic jams, and disruptions in underpasses and key urban roads between October 2 and 4.
Moreover, rainfall may continue beyond the Durga Puja festivities in regions such as Murshidabad, Birbhum, East Burdwan, Nadia, Bankura, Purulia, and Hooghly.
According to the IMD, a low-pressure area has formed over the West Central Bay of Bengal, influenced by the cyclonic circulation over the East Central Bay of Bengal. This system is likely to move northwest and strengthen into a depression by the morning of October 2, potentially crossing the south Odisha-north Andhra Pradesh coast by the morning of October 3.
With the immersion of idols set to occur on the banks of the Hooghly river, the weather forecast raises concerns for civic authorities in Kolkata. Measures are being implemented to ensure the safety of the immersion process, given that heavy rainfall may cause the river levels to rise.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight the interplay between culture and nature in Kolkata. The Met Office's predictions serve not only as a weather alert but also as a reminder of the unpredictability of the elements during significant cultural events. While preparations are in place to mitigate disruptions, it is crucial to remain vigilant and prioritize safety amid the festivities.
NationPress
01/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the expected rainfall in Kolkata on Dashami?
The expected rainfall in Kolkata on Dashami ranges from 64.5 mm (heavy) to over 115 mm (very heavy), as per the IMD.
How will the rain affect the idol immersion process?
The heavy rain is likely to disrupt the idol immersion process along the banks of the Hooghly river, raising concerns for civic authorities.
What precautions are being taken for the immersion?
Civic authorities are implementing measures to ensure safety during the immersion process, considering the anticipated rise in river levels due to heavy rainfall.
Which districts are likely to experience heavy rain?
Districts such as South 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, North 24 Parganas, and Hooghly are expected to experience heavy rainfall.
What is the cause of the heavy rain forecast?
The heavy rain forecast is attributed to a low-pressure area forming over the West Central Bay of Bengal, influenced by cyclonic circulation.
