Around 700 passengers aboard the Mumbai-Kolhapur Mahalaxmi Express were stranded as the train was held between Badlapur and Vangani due to heavy rainfall

While unofficial numbers are likely to be more, the Central Railway officials have quoted the passenger count as per the PNR number.

In pic: RPF officials conducting rescue operations

As per latest reports, eight NDRF boats (six inflated, two more being inflated) along with Railway personnel had reached the spot and began rescue operations. 

In pic: RPF officials conducting rescue operations

Eight flood rescue teams from the Navy which include three diving teams were also mobilised with life jackets, rescue material and Inflatable boats. 

Meanwhile, a Seaking Helicopter has also been scrambled with Divers equipped with Auto inflatable craft for deployment in the area as advance assessment party.

According to a passenger from the Mahalaxmi Express, the train was held up between Vangani and Badlapur - 100 km away from Mumbai, since 3 am on July 27

The suburban rail services have been operational at most sections except for Kalyan-Karjat/Khopoli due to incessant rainfall leading to overflowing of Ulhas River between Ambarnath-Badlapur-Vangani.

In pic: Passengers on the lifeboat during the rescue operations

The NDRF team rescued around 500 plus people so far, which include 9 pregnant women. Ambulances with 37 doctors and gynaecologist were deployed during the emergency. 

In pic: NDRF officials still manage to have a smile on their face while bravely performing their duty during the floods. Pic Courtesy/ Indian Navy

A member of Central Railway team earlier said, "Our request to passengers of Mahalaxmi Express, please don't get down from the train. The train is a safe place. Staff, RPF and City Police are in train to look after your well being. Please wait for advice from NDRF and other disaster management authorities." Pic Courtesy/ Indian Navy

Necessary arrangements like food etc were made available at Sahyadri Mangal Karayalay. 14 buses, three tempos arranged for further movement. Pic Courtesy/ Indian Navy

Western Naval Command is keeping a close watch on the situation and is in constant touch with State Administration to respond as required and provide necessary assistance in flood-affected areas. Pic Courtesy/ Indian Navy

According to reports, a special relief train was also scheduled to transport passengers to their destination. Food packets were also delivered to the passengers by the local police as well as the Railway Protection Force (RPF). Pic Courtesy/ Indian Navy

According to NDRF commandant Sachidanand Gawade, "The train services are suspended between Badlapur and Karjat and Khopoli. 15 trains were diverted via Karjat-Panvel-Diva while seven trains were short-terminated at Panvel, four trains were cancelled." Pic Courtesy/ Indian Navy

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis has also appealed to the citizens stranded in Mahalaxmi Express to not worry. He has ensured that all necessary rescue operations and measures are taken care of roping in all expert teams from NDRF, Army, Navy, Local administration, Police, Railway Ministry. Pic Courtesy/ Indian Navy