Army Called in Amid Rain Havoc in Pune, Mumbai on Red Alert
During heavy rain, waterlogging was reported in many areas in Maharashtra.
Severe Waterlogging and Disruptions in Mumbai and Neighbouring Cities
Heavy and incessant rains have caused severe waterlogging across Mumbai and neighbouring cities, leading to traffic snarls and delays in flight and train operations. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) declared holidays for all schools and colleges in Mumbai due to the heavy rainfall. Multiple areas in Mumbai recorded significant rainfall, with Malpa Dongri in Andheri receiving 157 mm, Paspoli in Powai 155 mm, and Dindoshi 154 mm between 4 am and 1 pm on Thursday.
Tragic Incidents in Pune
In Pune, four people have died in rain-related incidents. The District Magistrate, Suhas Divsae, called in the army to assist with evacuation and relief efforts. Several residential areas, including Pune's Pimpri-Chinchwad, have been flooded.
Army Deployed for Evacuation in Pune
The Indian Army has been deployed in Pune to evacuate affected residents to safer locations. Around 400 people have been evacuated so far, with two columns of the army stationed in the severely affected Sinhagad Road area. Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), fire brigade, and district and city disaster management cells are also involved in the relief operations.
State Response and Advisory
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde assured that airlifting rain-hit individuals to Pune would be considered if necessary. He urged residents not to worry as the state is prepared for further rescue operations.
Flight Disruptions
Several airlines have issued advisories due to the heavy rainfall affecting flight operations. Air India announced full refunds or complimentary rescheduling for affected passengers. IndiGo and SpiceJet also advised passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
Official Responses and Alerts
State Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar reviewed the situation and directed officials in Mumbai, Pune, and Thane to remain vigilant. The BMC issued a red alert for Mumbai until Friday morning, appealing to residents to avoid non-essential travel. Similar alerts were issued for Thane, Raigad, and Palghar districts.
Flooding and Evacuation in Pune
In Pune, three men died from electrocution while attempting to move a handcart submerged in water. Additionally, a landslide in the Tahmini Ghat area resulted in one death and one injury. Authorities are working to clear debris and reopen roads. In another incident, several individuals are feared trapped in a bungalow in Lavasa due to a mudslide.
Dam Water Release and Precautions
The Khadakwasla dam is releasing water at a rate of 9,400 cusecs following heavy rainfall in the catchment areas. The district administration has warned residents in low-lying areas to stay alert. A red alert has been issued for Pune for the next 24 hours.
Educational Institutions Closed
In Raigad district, schools, colleges, and other educational institutions were closed on Thursday due to heavy rainfall. Similar closures were announced for Palghar's Wada and Vikramgad sub-divisions.
River Levels and Alerts
An alert was issued in Kolhapur district as the Panchganga River reached 42.2 feet, just below the danger mark of 43 feet. Residents are advised to remain cautious.
The heavy rains are expected to continue across Maharashtra in the coming days, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) maintaining red alerts for several districts. Residents are urged to follow advisories and stay safe during this period of severe weather.
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