Sudden downpour leaves parts of Dhaka waterlogged

Waterlogging revives frustrations over the capital’s chronic drainage woes

Though the morning began with patches of sunshine, dark clouds have gradually gathered over Dhaka, bringing in rain and leaving parts of the capital waterlogged.

The shower, starting around 1:45pm, lasted nearly half an hour, disrupting movement across the capital on Monday.

Pedestrians, hawkers, shopkeepers and office-goers scrambled for shelter under temporary roadside stalls and high-rise buildings as the rain lashed the streets.

Many were later seen wading through roads soaked by the sudden downpour.

Meteorologist Md Tariful Newaz Kabir told bdnews24.com on Monday afternoon that Dhaka recorded 23mm of rainfall before 3pm.

“The highest rainfall during this period was recorded in Maijdee of Noakhali at 35mm,” he said.

Explaining the sudden rain over Dhaka, he said scattered pre-monsoon “Thunder Cell” systems had rapidly developed locally, causing abrupt rainfall.

“After May 14, there is a possibility of more rainfall, though the intensity may decrease somewhat,” he said.

Kabir noted that such short-lived weather events are often difficult for forecasting models to capture.

“These events develop rapidly and usually become noticeable only on the day itself or shortly beforehand. That is why long-term forecasts mainly indicate a broader increase in rainfall after May 13 or 14, along with chances of scattered showers.”

The rain also caused temporary waterlogging in several areas, including Mirpur-10 and Mirpur-12.

Mirpur-12 resident Rezaul Islam said, “We have been seeing this for years. A little rain is enough to flood the roads. The city corporation keeps making promises, but nothing changes.”

“Children face problems commuting to school during even light rain. A long-term solution is needed.”

Another resident, Mehedi Hasan Mahim from Mirpur-10, said residents suffer every time rainwater accumulates despite later intervention by city authorities.

Dhaka North City Corporation said its teams were working in the field to clear drains and ensure rapid water discharge during the rainfall.