Mumbai, September 26, 2024 - The bustling metropolis of Mumbai has come to a near standstill as torrential rains continue to lash the city and its surrounding areas. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Mumbai and neighboring districts Thane, Palghar, and Raigad, effective until 8:30 AM today.
The relentless downpour has caused severe disruptions across the city:
• Education: All schools and colleges have been ordered closed for the day by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
• Transportation: Local train services, the lifeline of Mumbai, have been severely affected. At least 14 incoming flights were diverted due to strong winds and poor visibility at Mumbai airport.
• Infrastructure: Widespread waterlogging has been reported in low-lying areas. A landslide on the Mumbra bypass in Thane on September 25 caused a traffic jam lasting over three hours.
Mumbai Police have urged residents to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary. The IMD forecasts that isolated heavy rainfall is likely to persist in the region until September 27.
This extreme weather event serves as a stark reminder of Mumbai's vulnerability to monsoon flooding, a recurring challenge for the coastal megacity. Emergency services remain on high alert as they work to mitigate the impact of the deluge.
As the situation continues to evolve, authorities are closely monitoring weather patterns and infrastructure stress points. Residents are advised to stay tuned to local news and official announcements for further updates and safety instructions.
