The Trans-Harbour rail services in Mumbai resumed operations on Wednesday morning after a temporary disruption caused by soil erosion beneath the tracks. This issue arose due to heavy rainfall experienced in the city. Following the weather event, train movement was halted, resulting in the cancellation of twenty-four trains, with speed restrictions still in effect between Turbhe and Vashi.
Central Railway issued an official statement regarding the situation, confirming cancellations due to reported track damage. The repairs have been conducted, allowing services to resume; however, precautionary speed limitations remain in place in the affected sections of the line.
Impact of Heavy Rainfall on Mumbai
The heavy rains that fell on Mumbai over the course of Tuesday and Wednesday evening led to widespread waterlogging in various low-lying areas. As a result, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an Orange Alert for the region, signalling the potential for further rain-related disturbances.
This alert, published early Wednesday, cautioned inhabitants of Mumbai and surrounding districts, including Thane, Raigad, Palghar, and Sindhudurg, about the likelihood of moderate to intense rainfall. Residents were advised to take necessary precautions during this period of anticipated adverse weather conditions.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reported significant rainfall metrics, indicating that the city averaged 56 mm of rain between 8:00 am and 11:00 pm on June 23. This figure included varying amounts across different suburbs, with eastern suburbs receiving a recorded 23 mm and western suburbs receiving 33 mm.
Waterlogging and Public Safety Measures
The incessant rains resulted in severe waterlogging in several areas of the city, prominently affecting the Andheri subway, which was closed to vehicular traffic due to flooding. In response to the challenging conditions, BMC officials reported that all other subway operations, apart from the inundated Andheri underpass, remained functional.
The BMC’s rainfall data indicated that during particular times, including a notable hour between 10:00 pm and 11:00 pm, various locations within the western suburbs experienced substantial rainfall. Areas such as Kandivali recorded up to 32 mm, while other neighbourhoods like Malad, and Santacruz also reported significant levels.
In light of the situation, BMC personnel were actively monitoring affected areas, aiming to ensure public safety. An official from the BMC, Rhitik, discussed efforts to mitigate the problems caused by waterlogging, explaining that while measures are in place, they are still searching for effective short-term solutions to address the severe flooding. Care was taken by officers to ensure that motorists did not attempt to traverse flooded areas, highlighting the risks posed by the conditions.