Heavy rains paralyzed Mumbai on Tuesday, forcing the closure of schools and other educational institutions across India’s financial capital and its surrounding areas. University examinations were also postponed as the city grappled with the aftermath of relentless rainfall over the past 20 hours.
Train and flight services faced significant disruptions, leaving commuters stranded and travel plans in disarray. Severe waterlogging was reported in numerous neighborhoods after the city recorded over 300 millimeters of rainfall in various locations within a six-hour window starting at 1:00 p.m. on Monday.
The University of Mumbai announced the postponement of all examinations scheduled for Tuesday. “New dates will be announced soon,” the university stated, reassuring students who had been preparing for their assessments.
In response to the flooding and to ensure public safety, teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were deployed across several affected areas in and around Mumbai. Residents from low-lying regions were evacuated to safer locations as a precautionary measure.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted that heavy rains will continue to lash Mumbai and other parts of the Maharashtra state over the next couple of days. Authorities have urged citizens to remain indoors and adhere to safety advisories.
“Our priority is the safety and well-being of the people,” an official said. “We are working round the clock to manage the situation and provide assistance wherever necessary.”
This bout of heavy rainfall highlights the ongoing challenges that Mumbai faces with its monsoon preparedness and infrastructure. As businesses and daily life come to a halt, residents are reminded of the city’s vulnerability to extreme weather events.
Reference(s):
Schools shut, university exams postponed in Mumbai amid heavy rains
cgtn.com
