A moderate spell of rain swept across Dhaka and other parts of the country on Thursday, bringing much-needed respite from the sweltering summer heat. However, the relief was short-lived for many, as the rainfall disrupted daily life, caused severe traffic congestion, and led to waterlogging in several areas.
The showers began early in the morning, coinciding with the city’s rush hour on the last working day of the week.
While the initial drizzle brought a refreshing change, it soon intensified, continuing intermittently throughout the day.
A thick blanket of grey clouds lingered overhead, keeping temperatures lower but also casting a damp mood over the capital.
As the day progressed, the light rain gave way to heavier spells, increasing the risk of urban flooding and traffic disruptions.
Major roads such as Mirpur Road and Airport Road, as well as inner-city routes in Dhanmondi, Motijheel, and Gulshan, were severely affected. Waterlogged streets, reduced visibility, and slick surfaces contributed to traffic snarls that stretched for kilometres.
Office-goers and students faced significant delays, with travel times often doubling or tripling. Ride-sharing fares surged amid high demand, while buses and other public transport struggled to manoeuvre through flooded stretches.
Rickshaw-pullers pedalled slowly through the slippery lanes, often covering themselves and their passengers with makeshift plastic covers.
“It took me over two hours to reach Karwan Bazar from Mohammadpur—normally it takes 40 minutes,” said Amina Rahman, an executive at a private firm. “The rain was a welcome change, but the traffic was absolutely exhausting.”
Students heading to exams or morning classes were also caught in the chaos. Many parents reported arriving late at schools, while institutions scrambled to adjust schedules.
The downpour exposed existing infrastructure issues, with potholes on many Dhaka roads turning into hazards during the rain. Poor drainage systems further worsened the situation, leaving several low-lying areas submerged and increasing the risk of accidents and delays.
Despite the challenges, the rain did provide a temporary sense of renewal. The showers washed over buildings and alleyways, giving the city a cleaner, calmer look.
Indoors, many residents enjoyed the cooler air and welcomed relief from the oppressive May heat.
The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has forecast continued rainfall throughout the day under persistent overcast conditions.
In its latest bulletin, issued Wednesday, the Met Office predicted light to moderate rain or thundershowers, accompanied by gusty winds and lightning, in most divisions—including Dhaka, Rangpur, Rajshahi, Mymensingh, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram, and Sylhet.
Some areas may experience moderately heavy to very heavy rainfall.
These weather patterns mark the early phase of the country’s pre-monsoon season, expected to continue over the coming days.
The Met Office has advised citizens, particularly commuters and outdoor workers, to remain cautious.
As the rains signal a transition from summer’s extreme heat to the wetter months ahead, the city is once again reminded of the delicate balance between nature’s relief and the challenges of urban resilience.