Mumbai Rains: IMD Issues Red Alert, Local Trains Disrupted, Mumbai University Exams Postponed

Mumbai witnessed another day of rain-induced chaos as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for the city on Wednesday, August 20, warning of extremely heavy rainfall. This alert comes after five consecutive days of relentless downpours that have severely impacted daily life across the city. Waterlogging, traffic jams, train delays, flight disruptions, and emergency evacuations have brought Mumbai to a near standstill.

One of the most alarming incidents occurred on Tuesday evening when two overcrowded Monorail trains got stuck between stations on elevated tracks due to a technical fault caused by the rains. A total of 782 passengers were stranded for hours without electricity or air conditioning, causing panic. Several passengers complained of suffocation, and at least one woman was hospitalized, though her condition is reported to be stable. Rescue operations were carried out on a war footing to bring all passengers to safety.

Meanwhile, the Mithi River continued to rise and is now flowing dangerously close to the warning level, prompting concerns of flooding in nearby areas. Several parts of Mumbai, especially low-lying regions, remained submerged due to continuous rainfall, making commuting a major challenge. Suburban train services — the city’s lifeline — were severely disrupted, with multiple routes affected due to waterlogged tracks. In addition, poor visibility and heavy rain also led to flight diversions and delays at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.

In light of the worsening situation, the University of Mumbai has postponed all examinations scheduled for August 20 to ensure student safety. There is also a possibility of schools and colleges remaining closed if the heavy rains persist.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) remains on high alert, deploying emergency response teams across flood-prone areas and urging citizens to stay indoors unless travel is absolutely necessary. According to IMD forecasts, Mumbai can expect some relief as the intensity of rainfall is likely to reduce starting Thursday, August 21.

Authorities have advised residents to keep monitoring official weather updates and follow safety guidelines as the city continues to battle one of the heaviest spells of rain this monsoon season.