A sudden squall in Kolkata on Thursday uprooted nearly ten trees across various pockets of the city, causing localized disruptions. According to reports, at least two dozen branches fell onto roads, particularly in central and south Kolkata, though major arterial stretches experienced only temporary waterlogging without significant traffic disruption.
Tree Damage and Cleanup Operations
Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) officials stated that the final count of damaged trees may increase as disaster management teams continue to clear debris from secondary roads and inner lanes. The squall, which struck in the evening, left several areas grappling with fallen branches and uprooted trees, prompting swift response from civic authorities.
Waterlogging in Key Areas
Stretches of Amherst Street and surrounding residential areas witnessed waterlogging, forcing commuters to wade through knee-deep water. KMC drainage department personnel were deployed with portable pumps to clear choked gullies and restore normalcy. The waterlogging was primarily attributed to heavy rainfall accompanying the squall, which overwhelmed drainage systems in low-lying areas.
Power Outages in Behala and Sarsuna
Parts of Behala and Sarsuna were left without electricity for approximately an hour in the evening due to the squall. Power utility teams worked to restore supply after assessing damage to overhead lines and transformers. No major injuries or casualties were reported from the incident.
KMC officials have urged residents to remain cautious and report any further tree falls or infrastructure damage. The civic body has deployed additional teams to monitor vulnerable areas and expedite debris removal. Traffic police managed to keep vehicular movement smooth on key routes despite the temporary waterlogging.
