Three individuals are feared drowned in two separate incidents at a waterfall in Navi Mumbai and a dam in Ambernath, with search and rescue operations currently underway, authorities confirmed on Saturday.
Incident at Navi Mumbai Waterfall
In the first incident, two persons were swept away while bathing near a waterfall in the Yeoor hills area of Navi Mumbai. The Thane district disaster management cell reported that the victims, aged between 20 and 25, were part of a group of six who had ventured into the area despite warnings. A team of 20 personnel from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and local police have been deployed for the search, which has been hampered by continuous heavy rainfall.
Ambernath Dam Incident
In a separate incident, a 30-year-old man is feared to have drowned in the Barvi Dam in Ambernath. The victim, identified as Ramesh Patil, a resident of Kalyan, had gone for a swim in the reservoir despite prohibitory orders. Local authorities have launched a search operation using divers and boats. “The water level is high due to incessant rains, making the operation challenging,” said a senior official from the Ambernath municipal corporation.
Structural Collapses in Thane
Meanwhile, heavy downpours in Thane city triggered several structural collapse incidents, prompting authorities to evacuate multiple families. In the Mumbra area, a dilapidated building partially collapsed late Friday night, forcing the evacuation of 15 families. No casualties were reported in that incident. In another instance, a retaining wall gave way in the Kalwa section, damaging three vehicles but causing no injuries. The Thane Municipal Corporation has set up temporary shelters for the displaced residents.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Thane district recorded 189 mm of rainfall in the 24 hours ending Saturday morning, with more heavy rain forecast over the next 48 hours. Schools and colleges in the district have been declared closed on Monday as a precautionary measure.
Ongoing Rescue Efforts
Search operations for the three missing persons are continuing despite adverse weather. The NDRF has deployed additional teams to assist local authorities. “We are using sonar equipment to locate the bodies in the dam and waterfall areas,” said NDRF commandant Rajesh Sharma. “The chances of survival are low due to the time elapsed and water conditions, but we will continue until we find them.”
Local officials have urged residents to avoid venturing into water bodies and to stay away from vulnerable structures during the monsoon season. The Thane district administration has also issued a high alert for landslides and flash floods in hilly areas.
