Heavy rains batter Mumbai and its suburbs; low-lying areas waterlogged; vehicular traffic disrupted

File Photo: Satej Shinde/Midday

Mumbai and its suburbs received heavy rainfall on Friday, leading to waterlogging in low-lying areas and disruption of vehicular traffic in the city.

Several areas in Mumbai, including Andheri, Kurla, Ghatkopar and Chembur, witnessed waterlogging due to the heavy spells of rains. The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) Ltd had to divert buses on more than 12 routes due to waterlogging in Sion.

Furthermore, motorists and pedestrians faced inconvenience as the Andheri subway was closed for traffic due to waterlogging.

Despite the heavy rains, railway authorities reported that trains on the Western, Central, and Harbour lines were running normally. However, commuters complained of slight delays in services, with trains running up to 10 to 15 minutes behind schedule.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a weather warning stating that moderate to intense spells of rain were expected at isolated places in Mumbai over the next three to four hours.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) data revealed that the city recorded an average rainfall of 30 mm in the 24 hours ending at 8 am. Despite a warning of heavy to very heavy rains issued for Thursday, the actual rainfall was lower than anticipated.

The island city, eastern suburbs and western suburbs received an average rainfall of 27.50 mm, 29.90 mm, and 27.49 mm, respectively, in the 24-hour period.

Earlier on Friday, the IMD Mumbai had predicted heavy rainfall in the city and suburbs, with the possibility of very heavy rainfall at isolated places, accompanied by occasional gusty winds reaching speeds of 45-55 kmph.

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Despite the disruption caused by the heavy rains and waterlogging, the authorities are closely monitoring the situation to ensure public safety and minimize further inconveniences.

Meanwhile, while several areas in the Thane district experienced heavy rainfall and waterlogging issues in the last two days, there has been insufficient rain in the catchment area. BMC officials remain optimistic about upcoming rainfall and hope for improvement in water levels.

Currently, a 10 per cent water cut is in effect, with the BMC closely monitoring the water stock. A meeting by the hydraulic department is scheduled at the end of the month to decide on either increasing the water cut or potentially cancelling it if there is sufficient water stock. (Agencies)