Hooghly, 01 September (H.S.): Continuous rainfall since morning has severely disrupted normal life across Arambagh in Hooghly district. Several wards of the town have been inundated, with knee-deep water reported on several roads. In some places, overflowing rainwater has entered shops and residential houses. Residents have alleged that the town’s drainage system has virtually collapsed.

The situation is particularly serious in Wards 4, 5, 6, 13, 14 and 19, where extensive waterlogging has been reported. Rain continued into the afternoon, raising concerns that the situation could worsen if the downpour persists for several more hours.

The Arambagh Sub-Divisional Court premises has also been severely affected by the waterlogging. Large portions of the complex are submerged under knee-deep water.

From the main entrance of the court to lawyers’ chambers, the clerks’ section and the pathways leading to the courtrooms, several areas have been flooded. People have been forced to carry their shoes in their hands and roll up their trousers while wading through the water to enter the court.

Elderly litigants and women arriving from distant areas have reportedly faced the greatest difficulties.

Local residents alleged that even moderate rainfall causes significant waterlogging in different parts of Arambagh. They claimed that the problem has persisted for several years despite repeated complaints.

According to residents, the drainage issue remained unresolved during the previous Trinamool Congress-led civic administration. Following the change in government, the elected municipal board was dissolved and an administrator was appointed. The municipality has reportedly been functioning under the administrator for around two months, but the drainage situation remains unchanged.

Residents alleged that the drains have not been properly renovated or maintained for a long time. Lawyers of the Arambagh Bar have demanded immediate water drainage and the development of a permanent drainage system to prevent recurring waterlogging.

The continuing rainfall and widespread waterlogging have once again raised questions over Arambagh’s drainage infrastructure, with residents demanding urgent intervention to address the long-standing problem.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Priyanka Pandey