Will the Met Office's Rain Prediction Disrupt Celebrations in South Bengal?
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Synopsis
As South Bengal braces for potential flooding due to heavy rains forecasted by the Met office, the political aftermath of DVC's water release adds to the tension. This article explores the impact on Lakshmi Puja festivities and the concerns raised by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee regarding the situation.
Key Takeaways
- Heavy rainfall forecasted in South Bengal until Lakshmi Puja.
- Low-lying areas at risk of flooding due to DVC water discharge.
- Political tensions arise over water management issues.
- Rain expected across all districts in North Bengal as well.
- Residents advised to stay vigilant during adverse weather.
Kolkata, Oct 4 (NationPress) The Met office has forecasted moderate to heavy rainfall across South Bengal from Saturday until Lakshmi Puja on Monday, influenced by a deep depression hovering over Gangetic Bengal.
This depression has already made landfall.
As a result of the anticipated heavy rain and water discharge from the Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) dams, numerous low-lying regions in Bengal, particularly in Howrah, Hooghly, West Midnapore, and East Midnapore districts, are at risk of flooding.
The weather bureau indicates that rain may affect all districts in South Bengal over the next two days, with thunderstorms possible in some areas. Rain is expected in districts such as South 24 Parganas, North 24 Parganas, East Midnapore, West Midnapore, Bankura, Howrah, Nadia, and Birbhum.
Gusty winds between 30-40 km/h may accompany the rainfall. This weather pattern is likely to persist until Monday, coinciding with the Lakshmi Puja celebrations.
Kolkata is expected to experience moderate to heavy rain starting Saturday and continuing for the next two days.
In addition, there are indications of rainfall across all districts in North Bengal until Tuesday, with warnings of heavy to very heavy rain in districts like Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Cooch Behar, Alipurduar, and Jalpaiguri.
This latest forecast emerges amid a political uproar regarding the DVC's water discharge. On Friday, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the corporation of “disrupting the festive atmosphere” during Vijayadashami by releasing 65,000 cusecs of water from its dams without notifying the state.
“This reckless action is akin to inflicting suffering during our revered celebrations,” the Chief Minister remarked in a social media post on Friday afternoon.
She condemned the DVC's unilateral actions as shameful and utterly unacceptable.
“By discharging water without prior notice, the DVC has endangered millions of lives in Bengal. This isn’t a natural disaster; it’s a calamity orchestrated by the DVC,” the Chief Minister asserted.
Point of View
The Met office's predictions for South Bengal warrant our attention. The potential flooding poses significant challenges during a culturally important event, while the political tensions surrounding water management further complicate the situation. It's crucial for authorities to act responsibly and prioritize public safety during this time.
NationPress
04/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What weather conditions are expected in South Bengal?
The Met office predicts moderate to heavy rain across South Bengal from Saturday through Lakshmi Puja on Monday, under the influence of a deep depression.
Which areas are likely to face flooding?
Low-lying areas in Howrah, Hooghly, West Midnapore, and East Midnapore districts are at risk of flooding due to heavy rainfall and DVC water release.
What did Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee say about the DVC's actions?
She accused the DVC of disrupting festive moods by releasing water without prior notice, which she described as a reckless act putting lives in danger.
What is the forecast for North Bengal?
Rain is expected in all districts of North Bengal until Tuesday, with warnings of heavy to very heavy rain in several districts.
What should residents do to prepare for the rain?
Residents should stay informed about weather updates, avoid low-lying areas, and prepare for potential flooding during the predicted rainfall.
