09Nov15
South Karnataka to Get Soaked This Diwali, Predicts Meteorological Department
BENGALURU: It is going to be a wet Diwali for city residents this year. Parts of South Interior Karnataka including Bengaluru are likely to receive heavy rains on Tuesday and Wednesday, according to forecast issued by Indian Meteorological Department here.
The officials said there is a cyclonic storm moving westwards in the Arabian Sea. A deep depression over the Bay of Bengal will further intensify in to a cyclonic storm in the next 24 hours and pass through Tamil Nadu coast between Karikala and Chennai bringing rains to South Karnataka region, they added.
The city has received good rains in this month already with 95.3 mm on November 3 and 33.4 mm on November 5. On the same days last year, no rainfall was reported. However, on November 23 last year, the city had witnessed a record rainfall of 106.2 mm, while the average rain for the entire month is 57.2 mm.
With such a downpour, many houses were flooded, trees were uprootd and traffic had gone completely out of gear.
Taking a cue from the IMD’s forecast and last year’s experience, BBMP officials have been directed to be on alert and ensure rain related emergency team coordinate with the control room officials and immediately rush to affected spots.
“Prahari teams consisting over five members who are experts in rain related emergencies are already deputed in eight BBMP zones. A team from our forest department will coordinate with fire and emergency service department and the home guards,” said a senior BBMP official.
Clearing Storm Water Drains When roads got chocked following rains in June, the Storm Water Department started clearing major storm water drains and primary drains. “The work is ongoing. We have also noted the key areas like TV Tower, RT Nagar Main Road and other areas where the removal of silt is underway. The process will be completed in all such areas that connect important lakes and valleys,” said Ananthaswamy, Chief Engineer, Storm Water Drains, BBMP.
Following recent rains inthe city, a small portion of the road in Subramanyanagar Main Road near Malleshwaram caved in on Sunday. This stretch of road sees heavy traffic density during peak hours.
While the local residents placed two stones and a cardboard box to draw the attention of motorists, there is no other warning sign.
This apart, an open manhole and an open drain right next to the spot pose a threat to commuters. BBMP West Zone Joint Commissioner said the issue has not been brought to his notice and added that he would take measures after visiting the spot.
Corporator H Manjunath said the road caved in due to the damaged drain and added that repairs would be taken up soon.
http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/karnataka/South-Karnataka-to-Get-Soaked-This-Diwali-Predicts-Meteorological-Department/2015/11/09/article3120887.ece
