Mumbai Paralysed by Torrential Rain: Red Alert Issued, Flight Operations Disrupted at Airport

Mumbai: A wet and chaotic Saturday unfolded for Mumbai as heavy to very heavy rainfall pounded the city from the early hours, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a red alert. With warnings of extremely heavy showers at isolated spots, concerns mounted over flooding, massive traffic jams, and interruptions to essential services.

The city’s lifeline of air travel was among the worst hit. Operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport were severely impacted after waterlogging on the tarmac and surrounding areas slowed down ground movements. Images from the airport showed airline staff and ground vehicles trudging through ankle-deep water, while passengers faced uncertainty as multiple flights were delayed.

Airlines scrambled to manage the crisis. IndiGo, in an advisory, urged passengers to check flight status updates before leaving for the airport and to factor in extra travel time. “Our teams are closely monitoring the situation to ease delays and support passengers at every step,” the airline assured.

SpiceJet also warned travellers of widespread disruption. “Due to bad weather (heavy rain) in Mumbai (BOM), all departures/arrivals and their consequential flights may get affected,” the airline announced on X. Akasa Air, too, issued a similar advisory, cautioning passengers about slow-moving traffic on roads leading to the airport due to flooding in Mumbai, Goa, and Pune. “We realize that this may inconvenience your travel plans and seek your understanding,” Akasa said.

On the ground, Mumbai struggled with its perennial problem—waterlogging in low-lying areas. Sion, Kurla, Andheri, and Vile Parle reported flooding as vehicles and pedestrians struggled through submerged roads. With a high tide expected later in the day, civic authorities warned that flooding could intensify.