The Outer Ring Road Companies Association (ORRCA) has blamed poor maintenance of drainage systems for the severe flooding that hit Bengaluru's IT corridor on Tuesday, following heavy rainfall. The downpour led to extensive waterlogging and severe traffic congestion, leaving thousands of commuters stranded for hours across the technology hub.
Waterlogging Disrupts Traffic
Waterlogging at the Devarabeesanahalli upper ramp caused significant congestion on the Kadubeesanahalli–Bellandur stretch, a key artery for IT professionals. Commuters reported being stuck in traffic for over three hours, with many abandoning vehicles to walk to their offices. ORRCA officials highlighted that the drainage infrastructure in the area has not been adequately cleaned or maintained, exacerbating the impact of the rains.
ORRCA's Statement
In a statement, ORRCA said, 'The repeated flooding in the Outer Ring Road area is a direct result of neglected drainage systems. Despite prior warnings, the authorities have failed to take preventive measures. This is unacceptable for a corridor that drives the city's economy.' The association urged the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to take immediate corrective action, including desilting of stormwater drains and ensuring proper waste disposal to prevent blockages.
Impact on Commuters
The flooding caused chaos for thousands of employees working in major tech parks along the ORR, including Manyata Tech Park, Embassy Tech Village, and RMZ Ecospace. Many companies allowed employees to work from home or provided temporary shelter at offices. However, those already on the road faced a nightmare, with buses and cabs stuck in gridlock. The Bengaluru Traffic Police deployed additional personnel to manage the situation, but the sheer volume of water made it challenging.
Residents in nearby areas like Bellandur, Marathahalli, and Kadubeesanahalli also reported water entering homes and low-lying streets. The Indian Meteorological Department has forecast more rain in the coming days, raising fears of further disruptions.
Long-Term Solutions Needed
ORRCA has called for a comprehensive review of the drainage infrastructure along the ORR, which is currently inadequate for the rapid urbanization in the area. The association suggested the construction of additional stormwater drains and regular maintenance schedules. 'We need a long-term plan, not just temporary fixes. The IT corridor is the backbone of Bengaluru's economy, and it cannot afford to shut down every time it rains,' an ORRCA spokesperson added.
The BBMP has not yet responded to the allegations, but sources indicate that a meeting with ORRCA officials is likely in the coming days. Meanwhile, commuters are advised to check traffic updates and consider alternative routes or work-from-home options until the situation improves.
