Heavy rain continued to lash Mumbai for the fourth consecutive day on Tuesday, crippling normal life as waterlogging disrupted movement across several parts of the city and adjoining areas.
In Vasai-Virar and Nala Sopara, floodwaters entered roads, shops and residential areas, leaving residents stranded. Commuters faced difficulties as traffic slowed to a crawl and accidents became frequent on inundated stretches.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the downpour is expected to intensify, with forecasts of heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next four days. Vashi recorded the highest rainfall in the region, while Navi Mumbai too was among the worst affected.
Amid a prolonged red alert, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) ordered schools to remain closed on Monday and Tuesday. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) had earlier announced a holiday for schools and colleges after continuous downpours battered the city.
BMC data showed that between 8 am on August 18 and 7 am on August 19, the city’s central zone received 178.56 mm rainfall, the eastern zone 190.50 mm and the western zone 220.82 mm. Poor drainage in low-lying areas worsened flooding, while large potholes hidden under submerged roads added to commuter woes.
Public transport also remained affected. Though suburban train services continued, both Western and Central lines reported delays of nearly 10 minutes due to water accumulation on tracks at vulnerable points. The disruption severely inconvenienced office-goers, students and traders who depend on suburban trains for their daily commute.
With forecasts predicting more downpours, Mumbai continues to grapple with overflowing drains, waterlogged streets and mounting fears of further disruption.
(With ANI inputs)