Mumbai is once again on alert as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow warning for thunderstorms, lightning and heavy rainfall through the week. After a short-lived respite, the city is heading into yet another rain-lashed phase, raising concerns for commuters, local infrastructure, and urban resilience.
According to the IMD, Mumbai recorded uneven rainfall in the last 24 hours ending Monday morning, with Santacruz observatory noting just 3 mm while Colaba registered 20 mm. These showers led to waterlogging in familiar low-lying pockets including the Andheri subway and Veera Desai Road, reflecting the city’s recurring challenge of inadequate stormwater drainage. Local transport, often described as the city’s lifeline, bore the brunt of the downpour. Suburban rail services on the Central and Harbour lines were delayed by 10–15 minutes, inconveniencing thousands of peak-hour travellers. Officials stated that while disruptions were not severe, further rainfall could trigger more widespread delays if tracks in flood-prone zones remain submerged. These recurring disruptions underline the urgency of upgrading Mumbai’s transport infrastructure to climate-resilient standards.
Despite commuter inconveniences, the relentless rainfall has offered one crucial benefit. Water reservoirs supplying the metropolis have now reached almost full capacity. Data released by civic authorities shows that the seven lakes collectively hold 14.42 lakh million litres, accounting for 99.67 per cent of storage. This secures the city’s water supply well into the next year, a vital relief for residents accustomed to water rationing during lean summer months. The IMD forecast suggests fluctuating conditions in the coming days. Moderate showers with gusty winds are expected on 23 September, with partly cloudy intervals offering brief relief. However, heavier rainfall is predicted to return on 26 September, likely bringing fresh challenges for transport and drainage. Temperatures are forecast to remain steady at around 29–30 degrees Celsius maximum and 24 degrees minimum.
Experts point out that Mumbai has already surpassed its September rainfall average of 383.5 mm, with Santacruz recording close to 400 mm so far. With a week still left in the month, the figure is likely to rise further. This underscores how climate patterns are shifting towards more concentrated, extreme downpours rather than evenly spread rainfall. Urban planners argue that Mumbai’s annual tussle with monsoon inconvenience is symptomatic of wider structural issues. While residents remain assured of water security due to brimming reservoirs, the disruption to daily life, transport, and economic activity highlights the costs of underprepared infrastructure. As climate change continues to intensify extreme weather, the call for eco-friendly, resilient, and sustainable urban planning grows louder.
For now, Mumbaikars must balance the inconvenience of clogged drains and delayed trains with the assurance of full reservoirs. The week ahead promises alternating spells of relief and disruption, a familiar reminder of the city’s monsoon paradox—both blessing and burden.
Also Read : Vande Metro Train To Connect Telangana And Bihar With Balanced Coaches Soon
