According to sources from the Airports Authority of India (AAI), a number of Kolkata-bound flights had to be diverted to other airports because of the bad weather experienced in the region. This disruption in flight schedules was a result of the inclement weather conditions that prevailed, causing inconvenience and delays for travelers.
Tragically, six people lost their lives in thunderstorms that hit south Bengal, bringing heavy rainfall to Kolkata and surrounding districts that had been experiencing hot and dry weather. Details provided by a Disaster Management Department official revealed that among the deceased were a married couple, with fatalities reported in various districts including Nadia, Purulia, and Purba Bardhaman district.
The impact of the thunderstorms extended beyond just the loss of lives, as services like the suburban train line of Eastern Railway's Sealdah division were also affected. Instances of disruptions were noted, such as when plantain leaves fell on an overhead electric traction wire during the thunderstorm, leading to a temporary halt in train services on the Sealdah-Canning line. Additionally, a Kolkata to Ranchi flight had to be grounded as it was unable to take off amidst the adverse weather conditions.