MUMBAI, Aug 19: Torrential rains lashed Mumbai and its neighbouring districts on Tuesday, paralysing normal life as train services on key routes were suspended, schools and offices shut, and rescue teams deployed in flood-hit areas.
The Central Railway announced suspension of services between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Thane, as well as on the Harbour Line between Kurla and CSMT, until further notice. Shuttle services are, however, operating between Thane–Karjat, Khopoli and Kasara stations to partially ease the commuter load.
With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issuing a ‘red alert’ for extremely heavy rainfall, the Maharashtra government ordered the closure of schools, colleges, government and civic offices across the city and adjoining districts.
Teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Indian Army have been deployed for flood relief and evacuation operations in several districts, including Nanded. Officials said nearly 10 lakh hectares of agricultural land, mostly under kharif crops, have been submerged across Maharashtra due to the incessant downpour.
Mumbai Traffic Police reported severe waterlogging at several key junctions including Gulalwadi, Sewri, Nagpada, Nawab Tank, Maratha Mandir, Byculla, Bawla Compound, Bhoiwada, Wadala station, Hindmata junction and Matunga, leading to major traffic disruptions.
Authorities have urged residents to avoid non-essential travel and stay indoors as emergency teams continue to monitor the situation.
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