MUMBAI — Authorities issued a red alert across Mumbai and neighboring districts on Monday as intense monsoon rains raised the risk of flooding, landslides and transport disruptions, prompting officials to urge residents to avoid non-essential travel and remain indoors where possible.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast heavy to extremely heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds across Mumbai, Thane and Raigad, warning that low-lying areas could face flash flooding and severe waterlogging. The weather agency also cautioned that high tides could worsen inundation along coastal stretches and increase the danger in vulnerable neighborhoods.
Mumbai's civic administration mobilized thousands of personnel for emergency response and appealed to residents to stay away from flood-prone locations. Schools, colleges and many offices remained closed or shifted to remote work arrangements as authorities sought to reduce travel during the worst of the weather.
Heavy rainfall disrupted transport across India's financial capital, with local rail services affected by waterlogged tracks and road traffic slowed in several parts of the city. The city's famed dabbawala lunch delivery network suspended operations because of safety concerns, while airlines and commuters were advised to monitor service updates as weather conditions evolved.
The severe weather also affected regional transport links. Landslides disrupted rail services in the Mumbai-Pune corridor, while sections of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway were closed after debris and slope failures, forcing authorities to divert or halt traffic until conditions improved.
Heavy rains have already resulted in fatalities in the Mumbai metropolitan area. Reuters reported that at least six people, including five children, were killed after a group of buildings collapsed in the city's eastern suburbs following persistent rainfall, underscoring the risks posed by the ongoing monsoon.
The downpours also disrupted public institutions. Mumbai University postponed examinations scheduled for July 6, citing the IMD warning and widespread transport difficulties, and said revised examination dates would be announced later.
The IMD said periods of heavy rainfall were expected to continue, with authorities maintaining emergency monitoring and advising residents to follow official weather bulletins and local safety instructions until conditions improve.
