New Delhi, Sept. 23 -- While Kolkata awaits the start of the Durga Puja, unprecedented heavy rains swallowed the city, dampening the festive spirit. Durga Puja in Bengal is usually marked by humid heat, but this year incessant rains - the heaviest since 1986 and the sixth-highest single-day rainfall in 137 years - have taken the state by surprise.

At least 10 people were killed, nine due to electrocution, in the heavy Kolkata rains. Rains also snapped air, road and rail transport. With knee-to-waist-deep water, educational institutions were shut, forcing the Bengal government to declare Durga Puja holidays in advance.

With deaths reported and flights delayed or cancelled due to heavy rains, the Bharatiya Janata Party lashed out at the M...