The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an 'orange' alert for heavy rain and gusty winds in Mumbai on Tuesday, prompting authorities to shut all government, private, and civic-run schools and colleges as a precautionary measure. Mumbaikars woke up to overcast skies and strong winds, with officials warning of significant disruptions, transport delays, and power outages.
Orange Alert Details and Impact
The orange alert is the third level in a four-stage colour system, placed above yellow and below red. According to an IMD official, the alert indicates that people should be prepared for extremely bad weather that can cause significant disruptions. Relentless rain on Monday brought Mumbai and neighbouring districts to a near standstill, with many roads submerged, trees uprooted, and several incidents of wall and billboard collapses reported.
Traffic Disruptions on Mumbai-Pune Expressway
Traffic on the Mumbai-bound carriageway of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway's 'Missing Link' bypass section resumed at 10:10 pm on Monday after remaining shut for more than 18 hours. A senior official of the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) told PTI that the closure followed a landslide near the exit of Tunnel 2, the longest tunnel on the Missing Link that cuts through the Sahyadri mountains, at around 4 am on Monday. Safety inspections were completed before reopening.
Rain-Related Incidents in Pune District
Heavy rainfall also triggered multiple landslides across Pune district on Monday. Four persons, including three members of a family, were killed in a landslide and wall collapse, while two others were swept away in separate rain-related incidents. Authorities rescued or shifted more than 500 people to safer places. One landslide in Patan village in Maval tehsil claimed the lives of three members of a family, officials said.
Precautionary Measures and Public Advisory
The IMD's orange alert advises residents to be prepared for extremely bad weather that can cause significant disruptions, transport delays, and power outages. The closure of schools and colleges aims to ensure the safety of students and staff. Commuters are advised to avoid waterlogged areas and plan their travel accordingly.
