From Sunday midnight to Monday early morning, torrential rains pounded Mumbai, leading to extensive waterlogging, severe traffic snarls, and major disruptions in local train services and flights. The unrelenting downpours, which persisted overnight, are expected to continue throughout the week, as forecasted by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The IMD reported that over 300 mm of rainfall drenched various parts of Mumbai within just six hours, from 1 AM to 7 AM on Monday, July 8, 2024. This deluge caused widespread waterlogging and brought daily life to a halt.
In a swift response to the flooding, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) announced a half-day holiday for all government and private schools and colleges under its jurisdiction.
Yellow Alert issued for several districts
Mumbai’s train services faced significant disruptions, particularly on the Central Railway suburban lines. Waterlogging on tracks between stations like Sion, Bhandup, and Nahur caused delays and suspensions. A tree fell on the tracks between Kasara and Titwala stations, further exacerbating the chaos. Services are gradually resuming, but many routes remain affected.
The IMD issued a Yellow Alert for several districts, including Pune, Ratnagiri, Raigad, Sindhudurg, Amravati, and Nagpur, warning residents to prepare for more rain. The city recorded over 300 mm of rainfall in just six hours, resulting in major waterlogging and disruptions in low-lying areas.
In Thane, continuous heavy rain since Saturday has led to houses and bridges in the Shahpur area being submerged. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) conducted rescue operations to aid those trapped in flooded localities.
Schools closed, exams rescheduled
Due to the severe weather, all government and private schools in Mumbai have been shut on Monday to avoid inconvenience to students. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has additionally announced a half-day holiday for official departments, with further decisions pending.
The University of Mumbai has postponed all CDOE (formerly IDOL) exams scheduled for the first half on July 8, from 11 AM to 2 PM. The exams will now be held on July 13, 2024.
Trains cancelled, BEST routes diverted
Due to WATER LOGGING at Various Station in Mumbai División on 08.07.24.
FOLLOWING TRAINS ARE CANCELLED :-
1) 12110 (MMR-CSMT) JCO 08.07.2024
2) 11010 (PUNE-CSMT) JCO 08.07.2024
3) 12124 (PUNE CSMT DECCAN QUEEN) JCO 08.07.2024
4) 11007 (CSMT – PUNE DECCAN) JCO 08.07.2024
5)…— Central Railway (@Central_Railway) July 8, 2024
Vistara airline has advised passengers to allow extra time for their journey to Mumbai Airport due to expected traffic congestion.
The heavy rain also disrupted suburban train and BEST bus services, with several routes diverted. Following widespread waterlogging in various parts of Mumbai, BEST buses have been rerouted on several routes.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in Mumbai today.
In the wake of continuous rains, the entire machinery of the BMC is working on the field.
Mumbaikar are requested not believe in any rumours. Also to step out of the house…
— माझी Mumbai, आपली BMC (@mybmc) July 8, 2024
Residents are urged to stay indoors and venture out only if necessary. The BMC has warned of a high tide of 4.2 meters around 2 PM on Monday, further complicating the city’s situation. In case of emergencies, citizens can contact the BMC helpline at 1916.
