Mumbai woke up to waterlogged streets and traffic chaos on Monday, September 15, after heavy overnight rainfall. According to data from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the city received intense showers between midnight and 8 am.
The Pali Chimbai area of Bandra recorded the highest rainfall with 176 mm. It was followed by Worli Fire Station with 170 mm and Adarsh Nagar School, Worli with 168 mm. Other heavily affected areas included Supari Tank School in Bandra (158 mm), Dadar Fire Station (160 mm), Colaba Fire Station (159 mm), Frosberry Reservoir (167 mm), and Bandra Fire Station (167 mm).
Several neighbourhoods reported waterlogging by dawn. Kings Circle, Sion, Andheri, Byculla, Mahalaxmi, and Peddar Road were among the worst affected. Water was seen collecting on railway tracks near Kurla, slowing down suburban train services.
Many commuters were forced to walk through knee-deep water as both rail and road traffic came under strain.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert early in the morning for the next several hours. Citizens were warned of moderate to extremely heavy rain along with thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds reaching 30 to 40 kmph.
The department also cautioned that heavy rain during high tide could lead to flooding in low-lying areas.
Mumbai Police issued an advisory urging residents to avoid coastal and low-lying areas. The notice stated that police personnel were on alert and ready to assist citizens. In case of emergencies, residents were advised to dial 100, 112, or 103.
The Mumbai Traffic Police diverted vehicles through Gokhale Bridge. Heavy congestion was reported on the Eastern Express Highway, especially around Sion and Kings Circle, causing long delays for office-goers.