Heavy Rain Batters Mumbai, Waterlogging Cripples Daily Life Across City

Mumbai: Mumbai was hit by intense rainfall throughout Friday, severely disrupting normal life in several parts of the city. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had earlier issued an orange alert for Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Thane, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall as the monsoon system remained active over the Konkan coast. A yellow alert was issued for Palghar district.

Rain began late Thursday night and continued into Friday morning, affecting both South Mumbai and the western suburbs. Areas such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), Churchgate, Dadar, Dahisar, Borivali, Kandivali, Malad, Goregaon, Jogeshwari, and Andheri were among the worst-affected, with widespread waterlogging reported. Commuters faced severe delays due to flooded streets, making travel extremely challenging.

High tides struck coastal landmarks like the Gateway of India and Marine Drive. In Vakola, residents waded through knee-deep water, while vehicles struggled through waterlogged stretches in Andheri and Borivali. The Andheri Subway was closed for traffic due to heavy flooding.

According to BMC data, the western suburbs saw the most intense rainfall between 8 am and 11 am, with the highest recorded at Hinduhridaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Trauma Hospital in Jogeshwari, where 67.3 mm of rain fell within three hours.

Flight operations at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport experienced minor delays due to low visibility and persistent rainfall. IndiGo Airlines issued a travel advisory, warning passengers of possible weather-related disruptions.

Mumbai Police issued a public advisory asking residents to avoid non-essential travel and stay away from the coastline. Emergency services have been deployed across the city, with officials on high alert to manage the ongoing situation.