Torrential rains disrupt life in Chittagong as authorities warn of continued downpours and landslide risks
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Torrential rainfall has brought normal life in the port city of Chittagong to a near-standstill, with meteorological officials warning that the deluge is expected to continue for at least another two days. The relentless downpour, fueled by an active monsoon wind, has prompted local authorities to monitor landslide risks in vulnerable hillside communities while forcing the suspension of academic activities across the region.
According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department, Chittagong recorded 284 millimeters of rainfall in a 24-hour period ending Wednesday morning, a level categorized as extremely heavy. Meteorologist Abdul Hamid noted that the active monsoon system remains stalled over the region, effectively blocking out the sun and keeping the city under a shroud of thick, gray clouds for several days.
The sustained weather pattern has significantly disrupted daily life. Streets in the city remain largely deserted as commuters, wary of sudden downpours and waterlogging, limit non-essential travel. While the Chittagong City Corporation stated that its drainage maintenance efforts have prevented prolonged flooding in most urban sectors, the persistent rain has slowed traffic to a crawl and curtailed the operations of roadside vendors.
The impact of the severe weather extended to the education sector, as the Chittagong Education Board announced the postponement of all HSC and equivalent examinations scheduled for Wednesday. The decision has created a period of uncertainty for thousands of students and their families as they await updates on rescheduled dates.
Beyond the urban disruption, the heavy rain has heightened concerns regarding the safety of residents living in proximity to hillsides. Tragedy has already struck in surrounding areas, with reports confirming six fatalities resulting from landslides and wall collapses in Rangunia, Baghaichhari, and Cox’s Bazar. Local administrations remain on high alert as the ground becomes increasingly saturated.
Meteorologists attribute this intense activity to the peak of the monsoon season, which is currently drawing significant moisture from the Bay of Bengal. As the atmospheric conditions show no immediate signs of weakening, residents have been advised to remain cautious. For the people of Chittagong, the coming days will require continued vigilance against the elements, with clear skies remaining unlikely for the immediate future.
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