Heavy Rainfall Lashes Mumbai; Yellow Alert Issued
Mumbai experienced intense rainfall on Sunday, June 23, leading to waterlogging and traffic snarls across the city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for the city and its suburbs, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall at isolated places. The downpour began early in the morning and intensified through the day, affecting normal life.
Traffic and Local Train Services Hit
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reported waterlogging in several low-lying areas, including Hindmata, Dadar, and Sion. Commuters faced delays on the Western and Central Railway lines as local train services slowed down due to water on tracks. According to the BMC, the city recorded an average of 40 mm rainfall in the 24 hours ending at 8 am on Sunday. The IMD has forecast more rain in the next 24 hours.
IMD Advisory and Precautionary Measures
The IMD advised residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Fishermen have been warned not to venture into the sea as conditions are rough. The civic body has deployed pumps to clear water from roads and is monitoring the situation. Schools and colleges have been asked to remain closed in some areas as a precaution. The BMC control room reported that no major incidents have occurred so far, but citizens are urged to stay alert.
Impact on Daily Life
The rainfall caused significant disruption to road traffic, with vehicles moving at a snail's pace on major arteries like the Eastern Express Highway and Western Express Highway. Many office-goers and students faced difficulties reaching their destinations. The local train network, the city's lifeline, operated with delays of 10-15 minutes on all lines. The Mumbai Police advised people to use public transport and avoid driving through waterlogged stretches.
