Heavy Rain Floods Vasai-Virar, Suspends Trains and Shuts Schools
Three days of heavy rainfall brought life to a standstill across Vasai-Virar in Palghar district, causing widespread flooding, power outages, and severe transport disruptions. The deluge particularly affected low-lying areas, including Nalasopara and Chulne village in Vasai West, leading to the suspension of local train services and the closure of all educational institutions.
The region recorded massive rainfall figures over a three-day period from Saturday to Monday. According to local records, Vasai-Virar received 213 mm of rainfall on Saturday, followed by 325 mm on Sunday, and another 202 mm of rain until 7:00 p.m. on Monday. The relentless downpour submerged low-lying areas, with rainwater entering ground-floor homes and completely flooding major roads and marketplaces.
The severe weather forced Western Railway to suspend suburban train services between Vasai and Virar for several hours on Monday after railway tracks at Nalasopara became completely inundated. Public transport across the entire region was crippled, leaving thousands of daily commuters stranded.
In Vasai West, Chulne village was completely cut off from surrounding areas. The village, which experiences severe flooding almost every monsoon season, became isolated after internal roads and bridges over local drains were entirely submerged under water.
Incessant rain coupled with strong winds caused significant structural damage throughout the region. Numerous trees and electricity poles were knocked down, and commercial hoardings were damaged. In several neighborhoods, tin roofs were blown away by the wind, portions of balconies collapsed, and retaining walls gave way.
These damages led to severe utility disruptions for local residents. Power supply was cut off for more than 12 hours in multiple localities, and residents also reported widespread internet connectivity disruptions.
In response to the ongoing weather conditions and safety concerns, authorities declared all schools and colleges closed. Additionally, a red alert has been issued for Palghar district for Tuesday.
