Mumbai remained on alert on Tuesday after an intense spell of monsoon rain disrupted transport services, inundated low-lying areas and forced the closure of schools and colleges across the city. The India Meteorological Department has issued an Orange Alert for Mumbai and its suburbs, warning of another day of heavy rainfall, thunderstorms and strong winds.
Authorities ordered a precautionary holiday for all government, private and civic-run schools and colleges after exceptionally heavy rainfall over the past 48 hours. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has also activated its emergency response system and deployed personnel across vulnerable locations.
Nearly 380 mm rain recorded in parts of Mumbai
According to data released by the civic body, rainfall over the last two days reached levels comparable to cloudburst-like conditions in several parts of the city.
The island city received around 300 mm of rain during the period. The eastern suburbs recorded about 380 mm, while the western suburbs received nearly 345 mm.
The IMD has also warned of lightning and strong squalls, with wind speeds expected to range between 70 and 80 kmph. Several tree-fall incidents have already been reported.
Waterlogging disrupts transport across the city
Persistent rainfall since Monday has led to widespread waterlogging in several low-lying areas.
The conditions affected road traffic and disrupted services on the Central and Harbour suburban railway lines. Flight operations were also impacted as the downpour continued.
The Maharashtra government has advised private companies to allow employees to work from home wherever possible. On Monday, employees in non-essential government and semi-government offices were allowed to leave early to avoid travelling during worsening weather conditions.
BMC deploys emergency teams across flood-prone areas
The BMC said its Disaster Management Control Room is monitoring the situation round the clock.
High-capacity dewatering pumps, suction machines and additional personnel have been stationed at chronic waterlogging locations. Rescue teams have also been kept on standby to respond to emergencies such as tree falls, electrical incidents and structural collapses involving dilapidated buildings.
The civic body has convened a special general body meeting on July 9 to review the rain situation and discuss monsoon preparedness and recent rain-related incidents.