Overnight rainfall triggered severe waterlogging across several areas of Raipur on Sunday, submerging streets under knee-deep water.
Filthy water entered many homes, damaging belongings and forcing families to stay awake through the night to ensure the safety of children and elderly members.
Several neighbourhoods in the city were submerged after the rain as up to three feet of water entered houses. Residents were seen bailing out water and trying to secure their possessions in the middle of the night. Many families went without sleep and meals, and some even struggled to access drinking water.
Local resident Raju Verma criticised the administration for failing to find a permanent solution to recurring monsoon flooding. "This is not a new problem. These conditions arise every year during the monsoon, yet no permanent solution has been found to date. It has become difficult to live in these homes with small children and the elderly. The presence of contaminated water has also increased the risk of infection spreading," Verma said.
Also read: Eight Himachal districts on yellow alert for rain
Another resident, Anita Verma, said the city's drainage system collapsed during the first heavy downpour of the season. She expressed concern over what could happen if there is heavier rainfall in the coming days.
Residents are demanding immediate relief and a long-term solution from the authorities.
Lokesh Yadav, also a resident, described the distress caused by the sudden flooding. "This situation happens every time; we are extremely distressed. We are moving around, carrying our children in our arms. We sit for a while, but then the fear of rising water forces us to move again. If this is the situation after the first rain, what will happen next?" Yadav lamented.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) weather bulletin of Saturday, fairly widespread to widespread rainfall is likely over Chhattisgarh, east Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha and west Madhya Pradesh till July 10. Isolated thunderstorm, lightning and gusty winds are likely over east and west Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh till July 8.
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