Heavy rain forecast over Mumbai; Navy teams deployed in Thane district

IMD warns of 'very heavy rainfall' in next 48 hours in Mumbai, Thane and Palghar

INDIA-WEATHER-FLOOD

Teams of the Indian Navy have been deployed in rain-battered Thane district neighbouring Mumbai in view of the prediction of heavy rains for Monday.

Defence PRO in a statement said that the Army has mobilised 120 personnel for search and rescue operations. Earlier in the day, at least 58 people, including 16 children, were rescued by an Indian Air Force chopper from Ju-Nandkhuri village in Thane district that was marooned by water.

The teams of the Navy will quickly respond to any new emergencies that might arise overnight. Bhatsa and Ulhas rivers are also overflowing and the level of water has risen to 8-10 feet, a situation which requires specialist assistance in evacuation of people.

Earlier in the day, two teams of the Navy successfully evacuated 27 persons from the vicinity of Khadawali village.

A flood rescue team of the Navy has been stationed in Shahad area under the Kalyan Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC).

Mumbai, Thane, Palghar and Raigad districts have been receiving heavy rains since Friday night, triggering floods in many rivers.

The IMD has predicted heavy rains on Monday as well. IMD warns of 'very heavy rainfall' in next 48 hours in Mumbai, Thane and Palghar, and extremely heavy rainfall at isolated places. The BMC has issued an advisory asking people not to venture into sea or in water-logged areas.

Due to heavy water-logging, flight operations at Mumbai airport are being delayed and some flights have ben cancelled.

Suburban train services resumed late Sunday evening after a 11-hour break due to heavy rains in Mumbai and adjoining Thane, Palghar and Raigad districts. The water-logging at many places had led to delays or cancellations of Mumbai suburban rail services. Central Railway services folded up in the morning due to water-logging on the tracks in Sion and Kurla. Its Harbour service, which connects the metropolis to neighbouring Navi Mumbai, was also shut for most part of the day due to water- logging at Chembur station.

(With PTI inputs)