Mumbai has come to a grinding halt as relentless heavy rainfall spreads the city, leading to widespread waterlogging, severe traffic jams, and significant public transport disruption. In response, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has ordered the closure of all schools and colleges for the day to ensure the safety of students and staff.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted this heavy rainfall, and the city recorded over 300 mm of precipitation in the last 24 hours. The torrential downpour has resulted in extensive waterlogging in low-lying areas, making it nearly impossible for residents to move around safely.
As a precautionary measure, the BMC has advised all citizens to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. "Safety is our primary concern," a BMC official stated. "We urge everyone to stay home until conditions improve."
Public transport has been significantly affected by the adverse weather. Suburban train services, a lifeline for millions of Mumbaikars, have been suspended due to waterlogged tracks. This has left many commuters stranded and searching for alternative ways to reach their destinations. Additionally, the city's road network is in chaos, with significant traffic jams reported in several areas.
The BMC and other relevant authorities scrutinise the situation and actively work to manage the crisis and restore normalcy. Emergency services are on high alert, and efforts are being made to clear waterlogged roads and resume essential services as quickly as possible.
Residents have taken to social media to share their experiences and seek assistance. Many have posted images and videos depicting flooded streets and stalled vehicles, highlighting the severity of the situation. The IMD has warned of continued heavy rainfall in the coming days, urging people to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions. If the rains persist, authorities are also preparing for potential flooding in additional areas.
As Mumbai grapples with the impact of this extreme weather, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of its citizens and minimizing disruption. The BMC and other agencies are working around the clock to manage the crisis, clear saturated areas, and restore public transport services. Mumbaikars are advised to stay indoors, informed, and safe.
