In Pics: Kolkata sees highest September rainfall in 13 years, throws life out of gear

Kolkata recorded the highest rainfall of September in 13 years following an incessant downpour in the metropolis and its neighbouring districts, as several areas were submerged and transport services crippled. Credit: AFP Photo

Torrential rains threw normal life out of gear, as the Met forecast more downpour for at least another day. Credit: AFP Photo

Indicating no succour, the Met Department forecast light to moderate rain in all districts of south Bengal, with one or two spells of heavy rainfall and thundershowers, till September 20 morning. Credit: PTI Photo

The weather office said Kolkata received 142 mm of rain in 24 hours till 8.30 am, and over 100 mm during the six-hour span from 1 am to 7 am. Credit: PTI Photo

The metropolis had recorded 174.4 mm of rainfall on September 25 in 2007. Credit: PTI Photo

Submerged thoroughfares and low-lying areas compounded problems for commuters, who struggled to find public transport amid the torrential rain and traffic snarls while going to work. Credit: PTI Photo

The drainage pumping stations of Kolkata Municipal Corporation recorded 136 mm rain at Dhapa, 115 mm at Kalighat and 109 mm at Ballygunge overnight, an official said. Credit: AFP Photo

Other places that recorded heavy precipitation during the 24-hour period were Canning (113.4 mm) and Diamond Harbour (83.6 mm) in South 24 Parganas, and Dum Dum (95 mm) in the northern outskirts of Kolkata, Met Department data showed. Salt Lake received 142.8 mm of rain, it added. Credit: AFP Photo

There were fewer vehicles on the streets since morning, but traffic snarls were caused owing to very slow movement because of submerged thoroughfares. People trying to go to work had a tough time getting public transport as the strength of public buses and taxis was much depleted owing to the torrential rains. Credit: AFP Photo