Bhubaneswar, Aug. 6 (UDN): An overnight spell of heavy monsoon rain threw normal life out of gear in Bhubaneswar, inundating roads and flooding several low-lying localities as residents battled waterlogged streets and submerged homes on Thursday morning.

Among the worst-affected areas was Shantipalli Basti in Saheed Nagar, where rainwater entered dozens of houses after continuous showers lashed the city from late Wednesday night. Many residents woke up to water-filled rooms, with furniture, electrical appliances and household belongings damaged by the flooding.

The rain intensified around midnight and continued for several hours before easing by daybreak. As drains overflowed, water accumulated on roads and inner streets, slowing traffic and making commuting difficult in several parts of the city.

The flooding also disrupted daily life for families living in the affected areas. Residents said they struggled to step out of their homes, while some were unable to prepare meals as stagnant water remained inside their houses. Several households reported losses after essential items were damaged by the overnight inundation.

The fresh spell of rain has once again highlighted Bhubaneswar’s recurring urban flooding problem, particularly in vulnerable low-lying pockets. Locals have urged civic authorities to improve drainage infrastructure and ensure faster clearance of stagnant water to prevent similar situations during the ongoing monsoon season.