Torrential rains crippled life across Vasai-Virar as highways, railway tracks, and arterial roads went underwater. With knee-to-waist-deep water, transport systems collapsed, and homes in low-lying areas were submerged. Amid the chaos, stories of courage, compassion, and community spirit emerged.

When a 90-year-old patient at Cardinal Hospital slipped into a critical condition, over-the-phone guidance was not enough. Without hesitation, Dr Santosh Pillai drove his BMW through flooded streets to reach the hospital. He managed to stabilise the patient, saving a life. Though his car later broke down under the Vasai railway bridge, Dr Pillai showed no regret.

“Being able to save a patient’s life is the greatest joy in a doctor’s career,” he said. In the Mori village under the Naigaon police limits, API Manisha Patil of the Mira-Bhayandar Vasai-Virar Commissionerate carried stranded children in her arms across floodwaters. Residents hailed her fearless act as a symbol of compassion and dedication. “Officers like her are role models,” said one local.