Heavy rainfall over the last few months has left a trail of destruction in Koramangala, Bengaluru. Frustrated with the downpour, the residents of Koramangala 4th Block have bought an inflatable boat. This area is one of the worst affected during rains. People walk through water, which is more than three feet deep.
The residents use boats for rescue operations during crisis situations. Children climb on to the boat to get to school instead of waiting for the water to recede. The watercraft comes handy, especially in case of medical emergencies. The folks in the neighborhood have used the boat at least 10 times in the last one month.
“My daughter had to wade through muddy water to get to the bus stop. I am glad we have a boat now. We are waiting for the government to permanently resolve the flood situation here.”Madhavi, resident of Koramangala 4th Block.
Sick and tired of being stranded, Shalini Modi, a resident of Koramangala bought a three-seater boat from her friend last month. She also makes the yellow row-boat available to all the other residents in the area.
“The neighborhood turns into a swimming pool every time there is a shower. But, life cannot come to a standstill. We have to perform our day-to-day activities. Since we have a boat, we are at least able to commute.”Shalini Modi, a resident of the area.
It is not only rain water that gushes into the locality. Sewage water also enters the low-lying area through the 80-feet-road. Besides using a boat, the residents have adopted several quick fix solutions like installing barricades and erecting sandbags to prevent the inflow of water into their houses.
With no solution at sight, whenever it rains, the folks in Koramangala continue to row a makeshift boat instead of driving a swanky car.
Video Editor: Vivek Gupta
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