Torrential Rains Leave Mumbai Stranded, Train Services Hit
Pics: Rons Bantwal
Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Aug 29: Torrential rains continued to lash Maharashtra on Monday August 29, causing widespread damage and loss of at least 15 lives in the past 48 hours.
There were flash floods in Thane and Raigad in which six people were washed away, while a landlide in Tardeo killed one. There were more such incidents reported from other parts of the state.
More rain has been forecast over the next two days in Mumbai and other parts of the state. Fishermen have been issued warnings and advised against venturing deep into the seas for at least the next 24 hours.
Disaster management teams all levels have been put on high alert to meet any eventuality.
The financial capital was submerged in rains, and while traffic was badly affected, suburban train services on the Central Railway had to be suspended. Services were partially resumed after nearly five hours' wait, which left students and office-goers in a dilemma.
Long-distance train services on Mumbai-Pune, Mumbai-Ahmedabad, Mumbai-Goa and other sectors was hit as trains were delayed, cancelled, short-terminated or merged.
Roads were knee-deep in waters making vehicular movement difficult. The traffic on Mumbai-Goa and Mumbai-Pune highways moved at a snail's pace.
Students of public schools heaved a sigh of relief as they remained shut for the day. Several private schools also decided to declare a holiday due to poor attendance.
The Mumbai Fire Brigade rushed to the rescue of 33 people who were stranded in a private resort in Palghar (Thane district) since Sunday, an official said.
However, unlike Sunday August 28, Mumbai airport reported normal services.
The heavy downpour has spelt good news for farmers and industries as the major and minor dams in all parts of Maharashtra were filled to the brim. The rains in the last four days mean sufficient power supply, better agricultural produce and sufficient potable water.