Red Alert in Mumbai
Heavy rains continued to lash Mumbai for the second consecutive day, prompting a red alert to be issued for the city and adjoining areas. Schools and colleges in Mumbai, Thane and Palghar have been ordered to remain closed today, as authorities predict more heavy rains in the next 10 to 12 hours.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is keeping a close watch on the situation, especially the rising water level of the Mithi river that flows through densely populated areas like Dharavi. BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani said five teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are deployed around the river, and the administration is prepared to shift people elsewhere if the water level continues to rise.
Mumbai Police Commissioner Deven Bharti confirmed that the police had helped several school children stranded due to the rains yesterday. He assured citizens that emergency services were running without any interruption and route diversions had been put in place in waterlogged areas. He urged Mumbaikars to contact the Mumbai Police control room for updates on road diversions, flooding and traffic. The police were also carrying out night patrolling to maintain order.
The impact of the heavy rains has spread beyond Mumbai as well. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar informed that nearly 10 lakh acres of crops have been inundated across the state. He informed that panchnama (assessment of crop damage) would begin in two days. In Nanded district, where heavy damage has been caused due to the rains, army personnel have been called in to assist in rescue operations. Pawar has appealed to people to stay indoors unless there is an emergency.
Education Minister Dada Bhuse announced that in view of the forecast of heavy rains over the next two days, district administrations have been empowered to declare holidays as required. This has resulted in educational institutions being closed in several districts with red alerts.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is giving updates to the state government every three hours and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is keeping a close watch on the situation in all 36 districts of Maharashtra. The water level of Mithi river near Kurla airport was also seen rising.
The incessant rain has severely affected daily life in Mumbai, traffic has been affected and may create more challenges if the rain continues as predicted. Officials are urging residents to take necessary precautions and stay aware of the changing weather conditions.
Source: The Hindu, Hindustan Times