Heavy rainfall battered Mumbai on Wednesday, triggering severe waterlogging across several parts of the city and forcing the closure of the crucial Andheri subway, one of Mumbai’s busiest east-west traffic links. Authorities issued safety advisories as intense rain continued to affect transportation and daily life.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for Mumbai and neighbouring Palghar district, warning of thunderstorms, lightning, intense rainfall, and strong winds reaching speeds of 40-60 kmph. Officials have urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and remain alert to weather updates.
Several areas of Mumbai recorded exceptionally heavy rainfall overnight, with some locations receiving more than 200 mm of rain within an eight-hour period. The downpour led to widespread waterlogging on roads, traffic congestion, and disruptions to normal movement across the city.
Among the worst-hit locations was the Andheri subway, a key route connecting the eastern and western suburbs. Rising water levels forced authorities to shut the subway and divert traffic through alternative routes, including nearby bridges. Visuals from the area showed vehicles stranded in floodwater as commuters faced long delays.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) issued a public safety warning, advising citizens to stay away from waterlogged areas, avoid driving through flooded roads, and exercise caution near open drains and low-lying locations. Emergency teams have been deployed to monitor flood-prone spots and clear drainage systems where necessary.
The Andheri subway has long been one of Mumbai’s most flood-prone locations during heavy rains. Earlier this year, authorities announced plans to explore permanent solutions, including improved drainage infrastructure and a possible flyover project, to reduce recurring monsoon flooding in the area.
Weather officials have warned that more heavy rainfall is likely over the next several hours. Residents have been advised to follow official advisories, monitor local weather forecasts, and plan travel carefully as the city continues to deal with the impact of the season’s heaviest spell of rain so far.
