Heavy Rains Trigger Severe Waterlogging and Traffic Congestion in Thane and Mumbai
Heavy monsoon rainfall since Tuesday night has caused severe waterlogging and massive traffic congestion in Thane, Andheri, and Santacruz, disrupting daily commutes on Wednesday. The civic crisis prompted Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray to publicly criticize the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) administration for its apparent negligence and lack of concern regarding the monsoon arrival.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Thackeray targeted the civic body's handling of the situation. He stated that while rainfall is not a new occurrence for the region, this is the first time in many years that the BMC is being run by an administration that seems unconcerned about the impact of the rains.
Thackeray also criticized Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde, remarking that the mayor appeared to be more focused on events in Dhaka and other parts of Bangladesh than on the local civic issues arising from the heavy rainfall.
The arrival of the monsoon brought relief from the summer heat but quickly turned into a major disruption for commuters as several parts of the region flooded. Heavy rainfall was recorded across multiple stations. Trombay received the highest measurement of 191 mm, followed closely by Mankhurd with 185 mm.
Other areas also recorded significant downpours, including LBS Mulund Check Naka at 175 mm, Chembur at 163 mm, Byculla Fire Station at 162 mm, and Tagore Nagar in Vikhroli at 145 mm. Nair Hospital in Mumbai Central registered 143 mm, while the BKC, Kandivali, and Dindoshi fire stations recorded 139 mm, 138 mm, and 136 mm respectively.
The intense downpour led to severe waterlogging in Thane, Andheri, and Santacruz, which triggered widespread traffic jams.
Following the heavy spells, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an Orange Alert for the region. The weather agency warned of continued heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds. Local authorities have urged citizens to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of intense rainfall.
