Mamata Banerjee Announces Relief Measures After Kolkata Flooding, Promises Jobs for Kin of Electrocution Victims

Kolkata, Sept 2025 : West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday said that water levels across Kolkata have receded considerably after severe flooding earlier this week. She also announced a financial relief package of ₹2 lakh for the next of kin of those who died due to electrocution triggered by heavy rains following a cloudburst. In addition, she assured that the bereaved families would be provided employment by the state government if the Calcutta Electric Supply Corporation (CESC) failed to do so.

Addressing reporters, Banerjee noted that while the Ganga River had swelled dangerously, the floodwaters were now receding in most parts of the city. “Except for some low-lying pockets, the water has receded significantly. Nature is beyond our control. The state government will stand by the affected families. While money cannot replace life, we will ensure that the families of those who died due to electrocution are supported with both compensation and jobs,” she said.

The situation unfolded on September 23, when an intense spell of rainfall led to widespread waterlogging, disruption of flights, and multiple deaths caused by electrocution. The Chief Minister, visibly moved, had said earlier that she had “never seen such rain before.” She instructed schools to remain closed and urged office-goers to stay at home until conditions improved.

“I’ve heard that seven to eight people have died due to electrocution. It is heartbreaking. Their families must be given jobs, and I’ve asked CESC to take responsibility. If they fail, the state will step in,” Banerjee said. She added that the city’s infrastructure must be modernized to prevent such tragedies. “Isn’t it CESC’s duty to be more vigilant? They supply electricity, not us. They must ensure that people do not suffer. They cannot keep doing business here without improving systems,” she remarked.

The Chief Minister also expressed sympathy for the Durga Puja pandals that were damaged by the flooding, emphasizing that the entire city was facing hardship. “Our own homes are submerged too; everyone is suffering. This is a collective struggle,” she said.

Banerjee confirmed that she was monitoring the situation closely and was in constant touch with senior officials, including the police and the Chief Secretary, to coordinate relief and safety measures.

The tragic incident has once again highlighted Kolkata’s vulnerability to extreme weather events and the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and infrastructure upgrades.