ARINDAM GANGULY, OP
Bhubaneswar: Heavy rain and strong winds triggered by Cyclone Arnab disrupted normal life in Capital city Wednesday, with cases of waterlogging on major roads, uprooted trees and damage to puja pandal reported in several parts. One of the major incidents was reported at Damana playground, where a large Lakshami Puja pandal by North Bhubaneswar Yuva Sangha Gajalaxmi Puja Committee collapsed around 11.30 am under the impact of strong winds. An approximately 80-foot idol of Goddess Lakshmi was also damaged, including its entrance gate and puja committee’s office. Police and Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) officials reached the spot immediately. A crane and earthmoving machine were deployed to remove the debris.
No casualties were reported in the incident. The storm also affected traffic movement across the Capital, with cases of waterlogging reported near Commissionerate Police Square, Bomikhal, Esplanade Mall at Rasulgarh and several other locations. Knee-deep water accumulated on few stretches, making commuting difficult for motorists and pedestrians. A tree was uprooted near Shikharchandi Nagar, blocking the Nandankanan-Patia road and disrupting traffic. Emergency teams were deployed to clear the obstruction and restore road connectivity. Several other localities, including Pahala, Nayapalli, Jayadev Vihar and Nandankanan, experienced heavy rain and waterlogging. The downpour exposed the vulnerability of low-lying stretches to waterlogging, with commuters facing difficulties navigating submerged roads and pavements.
Earlier, the BMC had stepped up its preparedness for the cyclone. The civic body had deployed pumps at vulnerable locations, cleared drainage channels and directed officials to remove temporary structures, hoardings and decorative arches that could pose a risk in strong winds. BMC had also placed its staff on high alert and cancelled employee leave until October 30. Although Cyclone Arnab crossed the Andhra Pradesh coast and weakened, its associated rain bands continued to affect parts of Odisha. The situation in the capital underscored the need for effective drainage management and rapid civic response during extreme weather events. With further rainfall possible, residents have been advised to follow official weather updates and avoid waterlogged roads and areas where trees or temporary structures may be unstable.
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