Dhaka, May 23 -- City life came to a standstill on Thursday as torrential rain coupled with political protests in places caused severe traffic gridlock throughout the capital. People from all walks of life--- office-goers, students, day labourers and others- were left in the lurch amid what many described as a "disastrous traffic situation."

According to the Traffic Division, the heavy morning rainfall led to waterlogging on many of the city's roads. The Met Office recorded a 22 millimetre rainfall on the day.

Besides, political demonstrations blocked some major routes, resulting in extremely slow vehicular movement.

Severe traffic jams developed at the major intersections like Bijoy Sarani, Khamarbari, Aarong Mor, Dhanmondi 27, and Sc...