Monday, 23 December 2024
Monday, 23 December 2024
Maharashtra is grappling with widespread flooding and disruptions as heavy monsoon rains continue to lash Mumbai, Pune, and surrounding areas. The downpour has led to overflowing rivers, submerged roads, and waterlogged localities, prompting authorities to issue alerts and implement emergency measures. From school closures to evacuations and transport disruptions, the intense rainfall is testing the region's infrastructure and disaster response capabilities.
Mumbai rainfall and water logging
A train passes above the Andheri subway which has been closed due to waterlogging during heavy rainfall, in Mumbai. Mumbai and its suburbs were lashed by heavy rains on Thursday, causing significant disruptions to daily life. The intense downpour led to widespread water logging on roads, particularly in low-lying areas. This resulted in severe traffic congestion across the city, with vehicles moving at a snail's pace through flooded streets. The situation was particularly challenging for commuters, who faced extended travel times and difficulties navigating through waterlogged areas.
Reservoir overflow in Mumbai
A commuter makes his way through a waterlogged road after rains. The heavy rainfall has had a positive impact on Mumbai's water supply. Four out of the seven reservoirs that provide water to the metropolis are now overflowing, significantly improving the overall water stock. Vihar lake, a crucial water source, began overflowing at 3:50 am, followed by Modak Sagar at 10:40 am. Powai and Tulsi lakes were already at full capacity and overflowing. This development is likely to ease concerns about water scarcity in the coming months.
IMD forecast for Mumbai
Sea waves crash against the stalls at Shivaji park chowpatty during high tide. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a forecast predicting continued wet weather for Mumbai. The city and its suburbs are expected to experience moderate to heavy rainfall, with the possibility of very heavy rainfall at isolated places over the next 24 hours. Adding to the challenging weather conditions, the IMD also warned of occasional gusty winds that could reach speeds of 50-60 kmph. Residents are advised to take necessary precautions and stay updated on weather alerts.
Mithi river and high tide alert
An aircraft prepares for take off during rains, at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. The Mithi River, which runs through Mumbai's industrial hub, saw its water level rise to 2.5 meters due to the incessant rains. While this is concerning, it remains below the danger mark of 4.2 meters. However, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. Adding to the complexity, a high tide of 4.64 meters was predicted in the Arabian Sea at 2:51 pm. The combination of high tide and heavy rainfall often increases the risk of flooding in low-lying coastal areas of the city.
Rainfall data and transport disruptions
Vehicles in a traffic jam on the Western Express Highway during rain, in Mumbai. In the 24-hour period ending at 8 am on Thursday, Mumbai saw significant rainfall across different areas. The island city recorded 44 mm of rain, while the eastern and western suburbs experienced even heavier downpours with 90 mm and 89 mm respectively. The heavy rains led to transport disruptions, with the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) forced to divert bus routes in Aarey Colony due to water logging. This affected numerous commuters who rely on public transport.
Railway services affected
A motorcycle moves on a road wrecked by rainfall at Dadar Station. Mumbai's lifeline, its suburban train services, was significantly impacted by the heavy rains. Both Western and Central Railways reported delays of 10-15 minutes in their services. The situation was particularly challenging between Kurla and Ghatkopar stations, where water accumulation on the tracks forced trains to operate at reduced speeds. The Panvel-Karjat line had to be suspended entirely due to flooding on the tracks. These disruptions affected thousands of commuters who depend on the city's extensive rail network.
Schools and colleges closed in Mumbai
Vihar Lake overflows due to heavy rainfall, in Mumbai. In response to the India Meteorological Department's red alert for Mumbai, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation took the precautionary step of declaring a holiday for all schools and colleges in the city. This decision was made to ensure the safety of students and staff. The severity of the rainfall was evident, with several areas in Mumbai recording over 100 mm of rain between 4 am and 1 pm on Thursday, underscoring the potential risks of venturing out in such conditions.
Ministers monitor situation
Police personnel work at a waterlogged police station during rains. The gravity of the situation prompted high-level government intervention. Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Ministers, Ajit Pawar and Devendra Fadnavis, actively monitored the flooding situation in Mumbai, Thane, and Pune. They issued directives to local officials to mobilize all necessary resources for disaster management. A key focus was on relocating people from vulnerable areas to safer locations. The ministers also appealed to the public to remain calm and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities during this period of intense rainfall.
Pune flooding and evacuations
Sea waves crash against the promenade during high tide, at Marine drive.The city of Pune faced severe flooding, particularly in the Sinhagad Road area. As a result, around 400 people had to be evacuated to safety. The situation was deemed serious enough to warrant the deployment of two Army columns for relief operations. Additionally, teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the local fire brigade were actively involved in rescue and relief efforts. The flooding affected several housing societies and low-lying areas, with cars and two-wheelers submerged in water.
Red alert for Pune district
A car moves through a flooded area during heavy rains. The India Meteorological Department issued a red alert for Pune district, warning of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall for the next 48 hours. In response to this alert, authorities took preventive measures including the closure of tourist attractions such as waterfalls and lakes in the district to ensure public safety. Additionally, private establishments in affected areas were advised to give their employees a holiday, reducing the risk of people getting stranded or caught in dangerous situations while commuting.
Casualties in Pune
Officials during a rescue operation at a waterlogged area during rain, in Pune. The heavy rains in Pune tragically resulted in four fatalities. In a heart-wrenching incident, three men lost their lives due to electrocution in the Deccan area of the city. They were attempting to move their submerged handcart to a safer location when the accident occurred. In a separate incident, one person died in a landslide in the Tamhini ghat section of Mulshi tehsil.
Pavana river bridge closure in Pimpri Chinchwad
The heavy rains have caused a sudden rise in the water level of the Pavana River, which flows through Pimpri Chinchwad city. As a result, the only bridge over the Pavana River near Birla Hospital has been completely closed to traffic. Water has started flowing over the bridge, making it unsafe for vehicles and pedestrians. The Pimpri Chinchwad Traffic Police Department has issued an appeal to citizens, asking them to use alternative routes to reach Dange Chowk until the water recedes from the bridge. This closure is likely to cause significant traffic diversions and potential congestion on alternate routes. Additionally, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation has instructed citizens living along the river to remain alert due to the rising water levels.
Water cut withdrawn in Mumbai
In a positive development for Mumbai residents, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation announced the withdrawal of the previously imposed 10 percent water cut, effective from July 29. This decision was made possible due to the satisfactory rainfall in the catchment areas of lakes supplying water to the city. The water stock in these lakes saw a substantial increase of 61 percent between July 1 and July 25. Despite this improvement, the BMC continued to urge citizens to use water judiciously.
Thane district flooding
A waterlogged shop after heavy rainfall outside the Kurla station. Thane district, adjacent to Mumbai, also experienced severe weather conditions. The district received a substantial 138 mm of rainfall in just five hours, from 8 am to 1 pm, leading to widespread flooding. This necessitated rescue operations in several areas, including Ambernath. To assist with these efforts, teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were deployed in the district. The heavy rains affected various aspects of daily life, including transportation and the safety of residents in low-lying areas.
Maharashtra requests water release from Karnataka
A car moves on a waterlogged road during monsoon rain, at Parel in Mumbai. In a proactive measure to prevent flooding in the districts of Sangli and Kolhapur, the Maharashtra government reached out to neighboring Karnataka. The request was to increase the water discharge from Almatti dam to three lakh cusec. This step was deemed necessary due to the rapid increase in water levels in various dams within Maharashtra, including the Koyna dam, which saw its storage increase by six thousand million cubic feet in a very short period. The coordination between the two states is crucial for managing water levels and preventing potential disasters.
School closures in Raigad and Palghar
A woman walks through a waterlogged road after rains, in Mumbai. The heavy rainfall and subsequent red alert issued by the IMD led to the closure of educational institutions in Raigad district and parts of Palghar district. This precautionary measure was taken to ensure the safety of students and staff. The decision affected all government and private schools, training institutes, and colleges in these areas. In Palghar, the closure was specifically announced for the Wada and Vikramgad talukas. District officials urged teaching staff to report for duty to assist in disaster management efforts if required.
