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The recent heavy rainfall in Bengaluru has caused widespread disruption, with the city's Phoenix Mall of Asia facing severe flooding. Viral videos circulating on social media captured the parking area and entrance of the mall submerged in water, posing a major challenge for customers attempting to enter. The mall, one of the largest and newest in Bengaluru, located in the northern part of the city, has been affected significantly by the torrential downpour. The flooding has encompassed all sides of the mall, highlighting the severity of the situation.
The mall management has acknowledged the flooding and stated that they are actively working to drain the water to make the premises accessible to customers. However, this incident has raised questions about the mall's location and infrastructure, particularly as it has been in the news for similar events since its inauguration in 2023. Last year, the Bengaluru police ordered the Phoenix Mall of Asia to remain closed for 15 days due to the traffic congestion it was causing in the northern part of the city. This decision, which was subsequently contested in court, underscored the mall's unplanned parking arrangements that contributed to significant traffic problems in the area.
In light of the ongoing heavy rain, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an ‘orange’ alert for Bengaluru, predicting further heavy rainfall in the coming days. As a precautionary measure, the city government has ordered the closure of all aided and private schools, Anganwadi centres, and high schools on October 16, 2024. Public schools are already closed for Dussehra holidays. The government order emphasizes the importance of ensuring the safety of students during the period of heavy rainfall. The Met Department's ‘orange’ alert indicates a high possibility of severe weather conditions, prompting the city authorities to implement measures aimed at minimizing potential risks to the public.
Source: Bengaluru’s Phoenix Mall of Asia flooded as incessant rain hit city