Torrential Rains Leave Chattogram Submerged

Large parts of Chattogram have been inundated after days of exceptionally heavy rainfall, leaving vast stretches of the city under knee- to waist-deep water and severely disrupting daily life. Persistent downpours, combined with runoff from surrounding hills and tidal surges from the Karnaphuli River, have created widespread waterlogging, forcing businesses to close and making travel increasingly difficult for residents.

According to the Patenga Meteorological Office, 330.8 millimetres of rainfall was recorded during the 24 hours leading up to 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, underscoring the intensity of the ongoing weather system affecting the port city.

Authorities have also warned of a heightened risk of landslides as continuous rain has saturated hillside areas. In response, the district administration has been using loudspeaker announcements since Monday to urge residents living in vulnerable hill settlements to move to safer locations before conditions deteriorate further. Chattogram has experienced fatal landslides during previous monsoon seasons, making such precautionary measures a key part of disaster preparedness whenever prolonged rainfall occurs.

Waterlogging has affected many low-lying neighbourhoods, including Chawkbazar, Muradpur, No. 2 Gate, Halishahar, Patenga, Agrabad, Katalganj, Chandgaon, Bakalia, Mohra, Boropol and the area surrounding Commerce College. In many of these locations, roads have become impassable, with floodwater entering shops and commercial premises. Business activity has slowed considerably as traders struggle to operate under the prevailing conditions.

The adverse weather has also disrupted education across the city. A number of schools and educational institutions have suspended classroom activities and internal examinations to ensure the safety of students and staff. While these closures have reduced unnecessary travel, many people have had little choice but to venture out for work or essential commitments.

Government and private-sector employees, passengers travelling to the airport, pedestrians, emergency service users and daily wage earners have faced particularly difficult conditions. Many roads remain partially submerged, making commuting slow and hazardous. Public transport services have been reduced significantly, while the number of private vehicles on the roads is far below normal levels. As a result, commuters have experienced lengthy delays and considerable hardship in reaching their destinations.

Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain visited several affected areas on Tuesday morning to assess the extent of the flooding and observe the waterlogging situation firsthand.

Assistant Meteorologist Biswajit Chowdhury of the Patenga Meteorological Office confirmed that 330.8 millimetres of rainfall had been recorded in the previous 24 hours as of 9:00 a.m. Tuesday. He also said that Local Warning Signal No. 3 remains in force for the country’s seaports and reiterated warnings over continued waterlogging and the possibility of landslides if heavy rainfall persists.

With forecasts indicating that wet weather may continue, local authorities remain on alert and are closely monitoring conditions. Emergency agencies have advised residents, particularly those living in flood-prone and hillside areas, to remain cautious and follow official safety instructions until the weather improves.