The southwest monsoon arrived in Maharashtra on Sunday, May 25, marking its earliest onset in 35 years, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said. The last time it arrived this early, was on May 20, 1990. Heavy pre-monsoon showers have already lashed Mumbai, with the city logging a staggering 736% surplus rainfall in May. The IMD has issued a yellow alert, predicting more downpours this week.
Heavy showers throw Mumbai off track
Monday morning’s intense downpour threw Mumbai into disarray, disrupting both air and rail services. Poor visibility led to flight delays, while waterlogged tracks caused local trains on the Central, Harbour, and Western lines to run 5 to 10 minutes behind schedule. Inundated roads across low-lying areas added to commuter woes, prompting the BMC to advise residents to step out only if necessary.
The civic body has also marked 96 buildings as unsafe for the season, relocating around 3,100 residents to temporary shelters as a precaution. With the IMD forecasting 105% above-average rainfall this year, the city is bracing for an intense monsoon season.
Mumbai logs 736% surplus pre-monsoon rainfall in May; Orange Alert issued till May 24
BMC scrambles to wrap up key works amid early rains
Meanwhile, the BMC is in a last-minute sprint to complete its monsoon preparedness projects before the May 31 deadline. Major roadworks using Pavement Quality Concrete (PQC) are in the final stretch, but several crucial elements, including mastic asphalt surfacing, lane markings, and signage remain unfinished in some pockets.
Determined to avoid a repeat of Mumbai’s notorious pothole problems, civic authorities have warned of immediate contractor replacements if timelines slip. While officials maintain that desilting and drainage operations are progressing as planned, the monsoon’s early arrival means the city’s readiness will be tested sooner than anticipated.
