Bengaluru witnesses moderate to heavy rainfall during the primary rainy season from June-October. Rapid urbanization with insufficient drainage system makes Bengaluru quite susceptible to waterlogging and instances of urban flooding.

Employee commute and supply chains get highly affected during this period, thereby, necessitating business organizations to prepare for suitable mitigation measures well in advance.

Note : Click on the area names to directly locate on Google Maps

Number of Flood-prone Areas Identified by BBMP in 2023

East Zone:

West Zone:

South Zone:

Mahadevapura Zone:

Bommanahalli Zone:

Rajarajeshwari Nagara Zone:

Yelahanka Zone:

Dasarahalli Zone:

Natural Disasters – Recently Recorded

Bengaluru witnessed heavy to very heavy rainfall and subsequent urban flooding in August-September 2022. Critical damage to infrastructure had highly impacted businesses operating in the city. Illegal encroachment on waterbodies and poor management by the civic authorities had even led to protests by the locals.

For detailed short- and long-term impacts of heavy rainfall and flooding on business in 2022, refer to MitKat Special Advisory on Bengaluru Floods. Similar disruptions can be witnessed in 2023 as well.

Common Disruptions

Precautions by the Government

• Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike’s (BBMP) temporary monsoon control rooms commenced operations from 01 June onwards.
• Joint maintenance of lakes and adjoining areas by BBMP, BWSSB, BDA, LDA and the newly constituted Karnataka Lake Conservation and Development Authority (KLCDA).
• The Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) is responsible for the treatment of sewage, and to ensure that it is adequately treated before being discharged.
• Installation of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) in parts of the city.
• Electricity providers are adequately prepared for prompt response to power outages.
• Police are deployed in larger numbers for maintenance of traffic flow. Often diversions and temporary blockades are issued for traffic management.

Recommendations

For Organisations

• Advised to undertake flexible working arrangement and allow remote work on days with inclement weather conditions.
• Conduct regular maintenance of equipment, machinery, and facilities to ensure they are in optimal condition to withstand any damage that may occur due to thunderstorms or lightning strikes.
• Advised to inspect and reinforce the infrastructure of the business premises to withstand heavy rainfall and winds.
• Undertake dampness check for water and electrical leakages.
• Prepare for adequate backups to minimise the impact of power outages.
• Internet Wi-Fi/Network disruptions may occur, ensure standby alternatives.
• MitKat advises to conduct evacuation drills and spread awareness among employees to remain prepared for emergencies.
• Advised to install flood control barrier system to prevent water from entering the premises.

For Individuals

• Advised to consider extra travel time as even low intensity rainfall may lead to severe congestion and consequent delays.
• It is advised to prepare for flood in adherence to the guidelines issued by the Natural Disaster Management Authority of India.
• Keep the surrounding clean. Unclog drains and trim the plants (if any) within the residential complex to avoid any kind of blockades.
• Be cautious during thunderstorms: Seek shelter indoors during thunderstorms and remain vigilant of alerts and warnings as issued by the authorities.
• Stay away from tall structures, trees, and open areas.
• Be cautious of frayed wires, electrical lines, and tree limbs.
• Unplug electronic devices to prevent damage from power surges during electrical storms.
• Use mosquito repellents and wear protective clothing.
• Taxi (online and offline) and delivery services tend to charge surge rates during rainfall.
• Avoid consumption of unfiltered water or street food.
• MitKat advises to keep a fresh set of clothes in the office, have alternate routes mapped and carry electronic gadgets and important documents in waterproof bags.
• In case driving in low-lying areas, avoid hard accelerations and brakes; maintain a steady momentum and do not restart engine while the vehicle is stalled in water. For further safe driving guidelines, refer to MitKat’s Special Advisory on Safety Measures for Vehicles During Heavy Rainfall.

Emergency Contacts and Source Links –

• Weather Updates – District-wise Forecast , District-wise Nowcast
• Traffic Updates – Bengaluru City Traffic
• Power Supply – BESCOM
• BBMP – 080-22660000, 9480685700 (WhatsApp), 1533 (Toll Free)
• Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewage Board – 1916 (Toll Free); BWSSB