Heavy rain battered Mumbai on Monday, August 18, flooding many parts of the city and causing huge traffic problems. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert warning for very heavy rainfall.
In several areas, waterlogging made movement difficult. Gandhi Market in Sion was flooded, the Western Express Highway near Vile Parle had long traffic jams, and the Andheri Subway had to be shut. Many vehicles were stuck on the roads, and people faced delays of hours while traveling.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) announced a holiday for all schools, including afternoon shifts. Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani asked all civic teams to stay alert and be ready for emergencies. Citizens were advised to remain indoors unless necessary and call the BMC helpline 1916 for any assistance.
The downpour also affected air travel. Akasa Air and IndiGo issued travel advisories, warning passengers about slow traffic on the way to the airport. Both airlines requested flyers to leave early and keep checking flight updates online.
Between 8:30 am and 11:30 am, different areas of Mumbai recorded heavy rainfall. Chembur received the highest with 91.5 mm, followed by Vikhroli (78.5 mm), Juhu (60 mm), Sion (58.5 mm), Bandra (50 mm), Santacruz (47.2 mm), and Colaba (29 mm).
Authorities fear more showers through the day and have asked people to take precautions. The situation is being closely monitored.
