Mumbai: In continuation of the heavy rains that started in Mumbai for the last two days, very heavy rains occurred in the central and eastern suburbs. Heavy rains started in Mumbai late in the evening. Areas including Bhandup, Mulund, Ghatkopar, Vikhroli, Mankhurd received more than six to eight inches of rain, all roads were flooded. Central trains were stopped after water came on the tracks at stations including Kurla and Bhandup. However, trains on the Western Line were running with a delay of about half an hour.
The Meteorological Department has issued a red alert in Mumbai till Thursday morning. Today at around 1 pm, heavy rain suddenly started in Bhandup, Thane, Mulund. By evening, other areas of the city also came under the grip of heavy rain. Areas including LBS Road, Chembur, Mulund Station, Ghatakpar, Dadar, Parel, Sion were suddenly flooded.
Citizens said that the maximum rainfall was recorded in Mulund area. However, by 8 pm, Mankhurd recorded nine inches of rain. This flooded the low-lying areas. There were scenes of rivers flowing on the roads. Water also entered shops in Mulund and Bhandup. Due to traffic jams and train stoppages, lakhs of people returning from work in the evening got stuck. There was a crowd on the platforms. Many people started leaving their homes on foot.
Visibility decreased at night. The situation became such that even the surrounding buildings were not visible. Due to this, the departure and landing of some flights at Mumbai airport was also delayed.
Municipal Corporation sources admitted that many areas including Bhandup, Vikhroli, Mulund, Ghatkopar, Chembur, Sion, Breach Candy have been flooded. Pumps have been installed at various places to draw out the water. The municipality has made all its arrangements ready. Officials have been asked to remain alert throughout the night. All ward officers, storm water drainage officers and the entire staff have been asked to remain on duty throughout the night. The municipality has asked to keep all schools and colleges closed tomorrow. In view of the red alert situation, citizens have also been urged not to go out except in case of emergency.