Bengaluru, known for its bustling IT industry and vibrant culture, faced a significant challenge as heavy rainfall inundated the city, causing chaos at the Kempegowda International Airport. Terminal 2, the airport’s newest addition, was flooded, disrupting flight operations and leading to the diversion of 17 flights to Chennai.
The relentless downpour, characteristic of the monsoon season, overwhelmed drainage systems and caused waterlogging in various parts of the city, including the airport premises. Terminal 2, inaugurated just a few years ago to cater to the growing passenger traffic, bore the brunt of the deluge, with floodwaters seeping into departure and arrival areas.
The flooding of Terminal 2 dealt a blow to airport operations, forcing authorities to implement contingency measures to manage the situation effectively. With several parts of the terminal submerged under water, airport staff worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers, many of whom were stranded amidst the chaos.
In response to the adverse conditions, airport authorities took the decision to divert 17 flights scheduled to land at Bengaluru to Chennai, where the weather conditions were comparatively more favorable. The diversion of flights was a precautionary measure aimed at minimizing disruptions and ensuring the safety of passengers and crew.
The incident served as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of infrastructure to extreme weather events and the importance of robust disaster preparedness measures. While Bengaluru is no stranger to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, the severity of the flooding at the airport highlighted the need for ongoing investments in infrastructure resilience and drainage systems.
As the city grappled with the aftermath of the heavy downpour, authorities worked swiftly to assess the damage and initiate cleanup operations at the airport. Terminal 2, a symbol of Bengaluru’s aspirations for modernity and progress, stood as a testament to the resilience of the city in the face of adversity.
While the flooding at Kempegowda International Airport caused inconvenience and disruption to air travel, it also underscored the need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events on critical infrastructure. As Bengaluru continues to grow and develop, ensuring the resilience of its infrastructure against climate-related risks will remain a top priority for stakeholders across the city.
