In the face of relentless monsoon rains and devastating floods across Maharashtra, authorities have placed 13 National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams on standby in various districts of the state. The situation has escalated to a critical level as Mumbai, the state’s financial capital, grapples with incessant rainfall, leading to severe waterlogging and disruptions to daily life. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) revealed that Mumbai has already received over 90% of its average seasonal rainfall by Thursday, with the figure reaching 2128 mm, out of the average of 2300 mm.
This alarming statistic has put the city on high alert, and the IMD has issued a ‘yellow’ alert, warning of heavy rainfall in isolated areas on Friday. As per the 8am weather update by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Mumbai and its suburbs are expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall, with the possibility of extremely heavy showers at isolated places.
Additionally, occasional gusty winds reaching speeds of 40-50 km/h are expected to compound the challenges faced by the residents. In response to the impending deluge, the District Collector of Palghar announced the closure of all colleges and schools in the district on Friday. Similarly, the authorities in Thane district have declared a holiday for all primary, secondary, and higher secondary schools on July 28, owing to the severe waterlogging caused by the continuous heavy rainfall. With the situation still precarious, the NDRF teams stand ready to assist in rescue and relief efforts in the affected districts.
These teams are equipped with specialized training and resources to handle emergencies and provide support during disasters. The situation in Maharashtra remains critical as the monsoon continues to unleash its fury, inundating streets, submerging homes, and impacting the day-to-day lives of residents. The state government and local authorities are working tirelessly to mitigate the damage caused by the heavy rainfall and ensure the safety and well-being of the affected population. As the rainfall inches closer to the yearly average, there is a pressing need for vigilance and preparedness.
The public is urged to stay updated with weather advisories and follow safety guidelines issued by the authorities. In times like these, community cooperation and timely response play a crucial role in minimizing the impact of natural disasters. As the state grapples with the aftermath of heavy rains and floods, the resilience of Maharashtra’s people and the dedication of the NDRF teams serve as beacons of hope in the face of adversity. Together, they stand united in their efforts to overcome the challenges posed by the monsoon’s relentless onslaught and to rebuild and restore affected areas.