Heavy rainfall has been occurring since this morning in several districts of Maharashtra. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a ‘red alert’ for rain in Thane, Palghar, Mumbai, and Raigad. Traffic has been stopped on the Andheri Subway in Mumbai. Meanwhile, in Thane, adjacent to Mumbai, a person was swept away in the Ulhas River due to heavy rainfall; Thane has received over 100 mm of rain in the past 24 hours. In the neighboring Palghar district, waterlogging has been reported in several areas due to heavy rainfall.

Due to heavy rainfall, Air India has issued a travel advisory. The airline stated that flights to and from Mumbai may be affected today due to continuous and heavy rainfall. Passengers are requested to check their flight status before heading to the airport. Considering the slow traffic conditions due to the rain, please leave home with extra time. Air India staff will be available at the airport to assist.

In response to the heavy rainfall alert from IMD and the flood-like situation in some districts of Maharashtra, the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) has deployed 6 teams. This includes 2 teams in Solapur, 2 teams in Dharanashiv, one team in Beed, and one team in Latur. Additionally, NDRF teams stationed in Pune, Mumbai, Thane, and Nagpur have been placed on high alert so they can be immediately deployed to assist the administration if needed. The NDRF deployment aims to ensure quick response during emergencies, operational readiness, and the protection of lives and property of the affected population.

Watch the rainfall VIDEO here…

In view of the ‘red alert’, the district administrations of Thane and Palghar have appealed to people to remain cautious. Since Saturday morning, multiple incidents of flooding and tree collapses have been reported.

Andheri Subway

Andheri Subway is a pedestrian underpass located in the Andheri area of Mumbai, India, built to help people safely cross the busy Andheri railway station and the Western Express Highway. It has historically been a crucial but often crowded and poorly maintained transit route for thousands of daily commuters. In recent years, it has gained notoriety as a location featured in the Netflix series “Sacred Games,” which depicted it as a site of criminal activity.

Ulhas River

The Ulhas River is a significant river in Maharashtra, India, which originates in the Western Ghats near the hill station of Karjat. Historically, it was a crucial waterway for trade and transport, with settlements like Kalyan developing into major ports. Today, the river faces significant pollution challenges but remains an important geographical feature for the region.

India Meteorological Department

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is the national agency responsible for weather forecasting, meteorological observations, and seismology in India. It was established in 1875 in Kolkata, making it one of the oldest weather services in the world. The IMD plays a vital role in issuing public weather warnings and, historically, has been crucial for agriculture and disaster management in the region.

National Disaster Response Force

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is India’s specialized disaster response agency, established in 2006 under the Disaster Management Act. It is a unique force dedicated to disaster response, composed of battalions from various paramilitary forces. The NDRF’s primary role is to provide immediate relief and carry out rescue operations during natural and man-made disasters across the country.

Pune

Pune is a major city in the Indian state of Maharashtra with a rich history dating back to the 8th century. It rose to prominence as the capital of the Maratha Empire in the 18th century under the Peshwas. Today, it is known as a vibrant educational and cultural hub, often called the “Oxford of the East” for its numerous universities and colleges.

Mumbai

Mumbai is a major port city on India’s west coast and the financial capital of the country. Originally a collection of seven islands inhabited by fishing communities, it was developed by the British East India Company in the 17th century and grew into a global trade center. Today, it is a bustling metropolis known for its Bollywood film industry, colonial-era architecture like the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, and the iconic Gateway of India.

Thane

Thane is a historic city in Maharashtra, India, located on the northeastern side of Mumbai. It was historically known as ‘Shreesthanak’ and has a rich past, with evidence of settlements dating back to the pre-Christian era and a prominent role during the Portuguese and British colonial periods. Today, it is a major residential and industrial suburb of Mumbai.

Nagpur

Nagpur is a major city in central India, historically known as the “Orange City” for its citrus trade and as the former capital of the Bhonsle Maratha kingdom. It served as the capital of the Central Provinces during British rule and is a significant political center, often called the “Winter Capital” of the state of Maharashtra due to the winter session of the state assembly being held there.