Heavy Rainfall Paralyses Dhaka as Severe Waterlogging Disrupts Commuter Travel
Heavy rainfall paralyzed Dhaka on Sunday evening, causing widespread waterlogging and severe traffic congestion that trapped thousands of commuters for hours. The deluge, which saw 54 millimeters of rain fall within a two-hour window starting at 4:00 p.m., crippled the city’s already strained transport network during the peak evening commute.
According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, the rapid accumulation of water hit critical levels by late afternoon. Residents attempting to navigate the city reported harrowing delays; one commuter described spending an hour and a half to cover a distance that typically requires only thirty minutes, while being forced to pay double the standard fare for a three-wheeler. Across major hubs including Farmgate, Karwan Bazar, Mohakhali, and Mirpur, commuters were seen stranded in the rain, struggling to secure transportation as vehicles stalled in the rising water.
The flooding extended across several key districts, with significant water accumulation reported in Tejturi Bazar, Kathalbagan, Sheorapara, and Dhanmondi. Meteorologist Md. Toriful Newaz Kabir confirmed that the intensity of the downpour within such a short timeframe resulted in the widespread inundation of low-lying urban areas.
Urban planners have expressed deep concern over the city’s vulnerability, warning that the current infrastructure remains woefully inadequate as the monsoon season begins. Iqbal Habib, a prominent urban expert, criticized the lack of foresight in municipal planning, noting that despite substantial expenditure and promises by previous authorities to eliminate waterlogging in the North City Corporation, the results have been negligible.
Habib pointed to the irony of areas like New Market—located only 300 yards from the Buriganga canal—suffering from severe flooding after minimal rainfall. He argued that the failure to respect the city's natural drainage topography and the neglect of existing waterways have left Dhaka’s residents increasingly susceptible to seasonal flooding. As the monsoon progresses, experts warn that the city faces further disruption unless systemic failures in urban planning and water management are addressed.
