The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Monday has declared holiday for all of the city's schools due to the unrelenting and intense rainfall. All educational institutions, including those with afternoon shifts, are subject to the decision, which was covered by the national media.
For the third day in a row, Mumbai has experienced intense rainfall, which has caused widespread waterlogging in low-lying areas. In some areas of the city, the heavy rain has drastically decreased visibility, making it difficult for cars to move around. Numerous roads are under water, and low-lying areas like the Lokhandwala Complex and the Andheri Subway have seen water buildup that has impeded traffic flow.
The city's vital local train network is also affected, with services running 15 to 20 minutes behind schedule, according to news report citing officials and commuters. However, bus services operated by the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking have not reported any route diversions.
The heavy rains began on Saturday and intensified on Monday morning, with a civic official said that the rainfall further increased in intensity from 9 am after an overnight downpour.
Data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicates significant rainfall accumulation between Sunday and Monday morning. The Santacruz observatory in the suburbs recorded 99 mm of rainfall, while the Colaba coastal observatory registered 38 mm. Further data from the BMC's automatic weather stations for the period between 8 am Sunday and 6 am Monday shows that the eastern suburbs received the highest average rainfall at 60.57 mm, followed by the western suburbs at 52.30 mm, and the island city at 45 mm.
The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)'s real-time disaster alert portal, Sachet, has issued a red warning for Mumbai City, Mumbai Suburban, and Raigad districts, which is in effect until noon. The IMD has also issued an orange alert for Mumbai and Thane districts, a step below the red warning, and this alert is in place until at least Tuesday. Following this period, the intensity of the rain showers is expected to lessen to "heavy."
Also Read: Mumbai paralysed by record rain on monsoon's first day
Amid the adverse weather conditions, the Commissioner of Police, Greater Mumbai, has advised residents to exercise caution. In a message posted on the social media platform X, the Commissioner urged the public to avoid non-essential travel and to plan their commutes carefully. "Dear Mumbaikars, Caution is advised as heavy rainfall continues under Orange Alert, incidents of water-logging and reduced visibility are being reported from multiple areas," the post stated.
The police official added that staff and officials are on high alert and prepared to assist residents. For any emergencies, the public is advised to contact 100, 112, or 103. The Commissioner concluded the message by emphasising that the safety of the citizens is the top priority.
Also Read: Heavy rain lashes Mumbai, Thane; red alert issued
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