Bengaluru, India’s IT capital, has been grappling with severe flooding following two days of relentless rainfall, prompting Cognizant Technology Solutions to mandate work-from-home (WFH) for its employees on May 20.
The decision comes as major tech corridors, including Koramangala, HSR Layout, BTM Layout, and Marathahalli, remain submerged, disrupting daily commutes and crippling office access.
While Cognizant acted swiftly, other IT giants such as Infosys and L&T Technology Services have yet to issue formal WFH advisories, leaving thousands of tech professionals uncertain about their work arrangements.
Bengaluru Central MP PC Mohan has urged all IT firms to declare at least two days of WFH, citing public inconvenience and safety concerns.
Meanwhile, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar acknowledged the city’s crumbling infrastructure, stating that the government will implement long-term solutions to address urban flooding.
Bengaluru’s Worst Rainfall in Years
Between May 18 and 20, Bengaluru recorded over 240 mm of rainfall, with 104 mm falling on May 18 alone, marking one of the heaviest downpours in recent history.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert, warning of continued heavy rainfall in the coming days.
The impact has been devastating, with:
- More than 20 lakes nearing overflow limits
- Underpasses shut down due to waterlogging
- Flyovers submerged, causing massive traffic disruptions
- Public transport services partially suspended
- Major IT hubs, including Manyata Tech Park, flooded, forcing employees to turn back
WFH Directive by Cognizant
Cognizant, a US-based IT services firm, employs approximately 40,000 professionals in Bengaluru.
Recognizing the safety risks posed by the extreme weather, the company mandated WFH for all employees on May 20, ensuring business continuity while prioritizing employee well-being.
A Cognizant spokesperson stated, “Given the severe flooding and transportation challenges, we have advised all employees to work remotely until conditions improve.”
Other IT Firms Yet to Respond
Despite the widespread disruption, other major IT firms have not yet issued formal WFH mandates:
- Infosys, India’s second-largest IT services provider, follows a three-day work-from-office policy, allowing employees some flexibility but no official directive has been issued.
- L&T Technology Services has not mandated WFH, instead allowing employees to coordinate with their teams on remote work decisions.
The lack of clear communication has left many tech professionals scrambling for clarity, with flooded roads and disrupted transport services making commuting nearly impossible.
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