Next 48 hours crucial: Maharashtra CM issues warning; rescue troops prepare as tool climbs to 8

Mumbai came to a standstill on Tuesday as heavy rains pounded the city, causing severe flooding, halting transportation, and resulting in multiple casualties across Maharashtra.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized the importance of the next 48 hours, with the weather department issuing a red alert for Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg.

Record rains disrupts life.

Mumbai received nearly 300 mm of rain in 24 hours—37% of its monthly average—flooding low-lying areas, submerging railway tracks, delaying flights, and severely disrupting suburban train services.

Heavy flooding in several suburban areas transformed streets into rivers, leaving vehicles stuck and forcing bus routes to change. Thousands had to walk through chest-high water to get home.

Rising tolls and evacuations.

Authorities confirmed that heavy rains led to the deaths of at least eight people in incidents like house collapses and electrocutions. NDRF and SDRF teams launched rescue operations in the affected areas. They evacuated around 2,500 residents from flood-prone zones in Thane and Raigad.

In Raigad, rising rivers compelled authorities to move families to relief camps for their safety. Meanwhile, the Ratnagiri district administration opened shelter homes to accommodate passengers stranded by the floods. Rescue boats and helicopters were kept on standby, ready to respond quickly if needed.

IMD warning.

The IMD explained that the heavy rain was due to a low-pressure area over the Arabian Sea that had strengthened into a depression. The bulletin predicted very heavy to extremely heavy rains in Konkan, Goa, and parts of central Maharashtra within the next two days.

Officials reported that water levels in key dams were increasing quickly and are under close observation. They urged the public to avoid spreading rumors and to follow only official updates.

Flight schedules and travel routes impacted.

Heavy rainfall severely impacted air travel, leading to cancellations and delays from major carriers including IndiGo, Air India, and Vistara. Travelers were advised to check flight updates in advance. The Mumbai-Goa highway also saw major congestion due to flooding and landslides.

Chief Minister’s message and response plans.

CM Fadnavis held a review meeting with disaster management officials and confirmed that all agencies were on high alert. “The coming 48 hours are critical,” he said, urging citizens to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary. He added that the administration is working tirelessly to manage the situation.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) set up control rooms throughout the city and operated pumps continuously to remove water from inundated areas. Over 200 emergency personnel were assigned to clear uprooted trees and reopen obstructed roads.