Unprecedented Downpour Submerges Dhaka, Disrupts Commutes and Closes Schools
Dhaka woke up to widespread chaos on Sunday after record-breaking monsoon rains overnight brought the city to a standstill. A staggering 76 millimeters of rain fell in just six hours until 6:00 am, marking the highest rainfall recorded this season. This intense downpour transformed major roads into rivers, causing significant disruption for thousands of commuters and students.
The continuous rainfall, which began around midnight Saturday, led to severe waterlogging across the capital. Many roads became impassable, with water levels reaching knee-deep or even waist-deep in some areas. Drivers faced immense challenges, with vehicles stalling as water entered engines, leaving many stranded for hours. One commuter, attempting an official trip, found his car stuck in Kazipara for three hours, unable to move forward or back.
Public transport services were severely affected. Roads in areas like Kazipara, Shewrapara, and Agargaon were under deep water, leading to a critical shortage of buses and auto-rickshaws. Commuters waited for extended periods in the rain, often without success, making it difficult to reach their workplaces or universities. Many reported having to walk through floodwaters to get around.
The severe weather also forced the closure of numerous schools and the postponement of examinations across the city. Institutions like Monipur High School and College, Viqarunnisa Noon School and College, YWCA Higher Secondary Girls’ School, and Bir Sreshtha Noor Mohammad Public College all suspended mid-year or other scheduled exams. Parents expressed concern about sending their children to school amidst the flooding, prompting authorities to take action.
Areas particularly hard hit by waterlogging included Green Road, Tejturibazar, Panthapath, Monipuripara, Bashundhara Residential Area, Dhanmondi, Mohammadpur, Bijoynagar, and Mirpur’s main roads. Even internal lanes, which typically remain dry, became submerged. The heavy rain continued through Sunday morning, keeping much of Dhaka in a state of paralysis and uncertainty.
