A work-from-home (WFH) advisory has been issued for all private offices, while the Maharashtra State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) ordered non-essential government offices under half-day watch in Mumbai on Monday amid heavy rains in the region.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Monday issued a red alert for Mumbai, Thane and Raigad districts, forecasting heavy to very heavy rain accompanied by strong winds. It also advised people to avoid unnecessary travel. Follow live updates related to Mumbai rains here.
WFH for private sector employees in Mumbai
In an advisory issued by the SDMA on X, the authority asked private organizations to allow their employees to work from home where possible.
Meanwhile, government and semi-government employees, except those working in essential services, have been given a half-day in the afternoon.
Authorities advised people to avoid non-essential travel, stay indoors except for essential services, and follow official advice as normal life remained disrupted in Mumbai and adjoining areas due to heavy rainfall.
Heavy rains in Mumbai, IMD issues red alert
The SDMA warning was issued after the IMD put the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) under red alert, forecasting extremely heavy rains along with strong winds of 80-90 kmph in Mumbai, Thane and Raigad.
Train services also continued to face disruption due to waterlogging between Vasai Road and Virar stations. Central Railway has asked passengers to expect delays, plan their travel in advance and allow extra time for their journey.
Schools in Mumbai, Thane, Palghar and Raigad remained closed. The traditional dabbawala lunch box delivery service has also been suspended.
A major landslide near Tunnel No. 40 on the Mumbai-Pune railway section brought rail traffic on the route to a standstill on Monday. The Central Railways has cancelled, diverted and regularized many long distance trains.
The IMD advised passengers to check traffic conditions before starting their journey and follow official traffic guidelines. It also asked residents to avoid staying in vulnerable buildings, work in open areas during thunderstorms, and take shelter under tall trees or isolated buildings.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has also appealed to residents to avoid going out unless necessary and stay away from trees, damaged buildings, billboards, electricity poles and other vulnerable structures.
