Bengaluru is grappling with yet another episode of severe flooding, triggering a wave of criticism aimed at the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) for its perceived inadequacies in addressing the city's chronic infrastructure challenges. Amidst this crisis, the BBMP Chief has defended the civic body, asserting that Bengaluru is more than just its "Electronic City" image and highlighting the complexities of managing a rapidly growing metropolis.
The recent deluge, characterized by over 100 mm of rainfall in several areas on May 19, 2025, brought the city to a standstill. Roads turned into rivers, homes were inundated, and traffic was brought to a grinding halt, disrupting the lives of countless Bengalureans. Areas like ST Bed, Ejipura, Koramangala, BTM, and HSR Layout were particularly affected, with residents forced to evacuate their homes using boats and tractors in some instances. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for Bengaluru until May 23, further heightening concerns.
BBMP Administrator Tushar Giri Nath and Chief Commissioner M. Maheshwar Rao have been actively inspecting the rain-affected areas. Giri Nath highlighted that areas like Sai Layout in Mahadevapura are prone to waterlogging due to their low elevation and inadequate drainage systems. He mentioned that while drainage widening work is underway, legal delays have impeded progress. Rao, on the other hand, assessed the situation at Bellandur Lake inlet junction, identifying the narrowing of stormwater drains as a key factor contributing to flooding in Madiwala, Koramangala, and Ejipura.
In the face of mounting criticism, the BBMP Chief defended the civic body, emphasizing that Bengaluru is a multifaceted city with diverse needs and challenges that extend beyond the IT corridor. He acknowledged the infrastructure gaps and stressed the BBMP's commitment to finding long-term, sustainable solutions. He also pointed out the complexities of managing a city with a rapidly growing population and increasing urbanization.
However, citizens and opposition parties have been quick to condemn the BBMP's handling of the situation. Many residents have taken to social media to express their frustration with the city's poor infrastructure and the perceived apathy of the BBMP and the Karnataka government. The opposition BJP has criticized the Congress-led state government, holding them responsible for Bengaluru's drainage and road infrastructure. JD(S) has also accused the Congress government, saying Bengaluru citizens were suffering daily due to flooded homes, clogged drains, and sewage problems.
The recurring floods have exposed the BBMP's failure to resolve woes in flood-prone areas. Despite repeated appeals from residents, long-term solutions remain elusive. BBMP officials have pointed out that some layouts are situated in low-lying areas with inadequate drainage, while others fall under the jurisdiction of the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), limiting the BBMP's intervention.
Experts point to a combination of factors contributing to Bengaluru's flooding woes. Uncontrolled and unregulated construction activity, particularly the proliferation of high-rise structures, has created a concrete layer beneath the city, preventing rainwater from percolating into the ground. Encroachments on stormwater drains and the destruction of lakes and wetlands have further exacerbated the problem.
The Karnataka government has allocated significant funds in the 2025-26 budget to address Bengaluru's infrastructure challenges. A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) will be established to manage grants and prioritize key developmental projects. The budget includes allocations for lake conservation, stormwater drain management, road development, and the construction of wastewater treatment plants. However, some experts argue that the government's focus on infrastructure-centric solutions overlooks the underlying ecological and institutional crises.
Moving forward, a more holistic approach is needed to address Bengaluru's flooding issues. This includes not only infrastructure improvements but also sustainable urban planning, effective enforcement of regulations, and community participation. The newly formed Urban Disaster Management Authority (UDMA) for the BBMP is expected to streamline resource allocation and improve flood mitigation strategies.
