Mumbai is once again at the mercy of the monsoon as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for coastal regions of Maharashtra on Monday, warning of extremely heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next 24 to 48 hours. The alert covers several districts including Palghar, Thane, Mumbai suburban, Mumbai city, Raigad, and parts of Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg.
The meteorological department stated that isolated locations within the alerted zones may receive rain exceeding 117.5 mm in a single day, equivalent to a month's average rainfall in just 24 hours. Strong wind gusts accompanied by thunderstorm activity are expected, raising concerns about waterlogging, landslides, and disruptions to daily life across the city.
Adding to the challenge, Mumbai is also heading into the final stretch of Ganesh Chaturthi preparations. With Lord Ganesha's aagaman (welcoming) ceremonies having already taken place at private homes and public pandals across the city, thousands of devotees are now making last-minute arrangements for the visarjan (immersion) processions expected later this week. The festive mood, however, is being tempered by the gloomy weather and authorities' repeated warnings about venturing out during peak rainfall hours.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has put its disaster management team on high alert, with additional drainage pumps, sandbags, and rescue personnel deployed at historically waterlogged spots. Local railway services have occasionally suspended on certain stretches when water levels rise dangerously near tracks, causing commuter headaches across the financial capital.
Nita Ambani and socialite Radhika Merchant were among prominent figures spotted at the aagaman celebrations, where traditional dhol beats and dancing greeted the beloved deity's arrival at various venues. Their participation highlighted the blend of celebratory spirit and community gathering that defines the festival even during challenging monsoon conditions.
Experts from the IMD noted that the current weather pattern is consistent with an active monsoon phase over the Konkan and adjoining areas. Residents are urged to avoid non-essential travel, stay indoors during intensifying showers, and keep emergency contact numbers handy. Fishermen in the Arabian Sea have also been advised not to venture into open waters due to rough sea conditions.
