Severe Monsoon: Mumbai Life Disrupted by 300mm Rainfall

Mumbai, India’s bustling metropolis and home to over 12 million people, grappled with severe disruption as it received an unprecedented 300 millimeters of rainfall within a span of six hours. The downpour, described by civic officials as the heaviest in recent memory, brought life in the city to a standstill.

The deluge forced authorities to take swift action, shutting down schools, colleges, and advising citizens to remain indoors due to adverse weather conditions. Commuters encountered immense challenges navigating through flooded streets, with vehicles partially submerged in knee-deep water. Both the Eastern and Western Express highways experienced severe traffic congestion, exacerbating the city’s woes.

Waterlogged tracks severely impacted railway services, which are a lifeline for Mumbai’s daily commuters, resulting in the cancellation of several long-distance trains. Inundation also halted local suburban trains, crucial for millions of daily travelers.

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport witnessed significant disruptions with over 300 flights delayed and 36 cancelled, according to Flightradar24. Major airlines such as IndiGo and SpiceJet reported operational challenges, affecting their schedules throughout the day.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde of Maharashtra state, where Mumbai serves as the capital, issued a cautionary advisory, urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors for their safety. The weather forecast predicted continued heavy showers and a high tide of 4.40 meters, heightening concerns of further inundation and disruptions.

Monsoon Devastations: Impact in Mumbai and Beyond

The monsoon fury in Mumbai follows recent devastating rains in New Delhi, which caused a fatal airport roof collapse. Across India’s northern and eastern regions, torrential rains triggered floods and landslides, claiming lives and displacing thousands. In neighboring Nepal, at least 11 fatalities were reported due to similar weather-related incidents.

In Assam, northeastern India, flooding affected more than two million people, with significant damage reported in the Kaziranga National Park, where rare one-horned rhinoceroses perished in floodwaters. The toll from floods and rain-related incidents across India since May has tragically claimed 66 lives, underscoring the widespread impact of the monsoon’s fury on the subcontinent.

Also Read: Thunderstorms and Rain Expected in Lahore Until June 7th

As Mumbai and other affected regions brace for continued inclement weather, authorities are on high alert, focusing efforts on rescue and relief operations amidst the ongoing monsoon season’s unpredictable onslaught.