Safety guidelines for flooded underpasses in Bengaluru

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: A 22-year-old woman lost her life after being trapped inside a flooded car at the KR Circle underpass in Bengaluru on Sunday. Bhanurekha, the victim, was unable to escape the vehicle as it got stuck at the underpass due to a heavy downpour.

The unfortunate incident has sparked concerns among the city's residents regarding the safety of underpasses during heavy rains. The incident sheds light on a recurring issue in the capital city of Karnataka, where underpasses often get flooded following even a brief spell of rain.

In response to this tragic event, The Disaster Management Department of Karnataka has shared a set of guidelines for motorists who encounter underpasses during rainstorms.

These dos and don'ts aim to enhance public awareness and ensure the safety of motorists:

If the water level exceeds one foot, it is strongly advised not to enter the underpass in a car or on a bike. l Check if rainwater is flowing steadily into the drain in the underpass.

Exercise caution and consider waiting or taking an alternative route instead of risking passage through a flooded underpass.

Do not succumb to pressure from other vehicles to drive through a flooded underpass, even if traffic builds up behind you.

Immediately contact the local police or fire personnel if your vehicle gets stuck in a flooded underpass.