Persistent rainfall has disrupted daily life across Maharashtra, forcing school closures in Thane, Panvel, Navi Mumbai and Lonavala. However, Mumbai’s municipal authorities have not declared any shutdown, leading to widespread confusion among students and parents who remain uncertain about Wednesday’s classes.
Educational officials confirmed that messages circulating on social media regarding a closure order in Mumbai were false. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) clarified that no such directive had been issued, urging citizens to rely on official announcements. Meanwhile, municipal councils in neighbouring districts imposed precautionary closures as a red alert remained in force. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for several districts including Thane, Raigad and Pune, where heavy rains continue to batter the ghats. In Lonavala, the municipal council confirmed that schools will stay closed until August 21. Authorities in Panvel and Navi Mumbai followed suit, citing safety risks and travel disruptions caused by waterlogging and flooding.
In Belagavi, Karnataka, schools were also ordered shut after incessant rainfall triggered alerts. Similarly, Jammu witnessed closures following multiple cloudbursts, highlighting how climate volatility is increasingly straining education systems across regions. Back in Mumbai, while schools remain open, transport networks remain under pressure. The Western Railway reported significant cancellations, and the city witnessed waterlogging in Bandra, Chembur, Vasai-Virar and Chunabhatti. A monorail service broke down near Mysore Colony, leaving nearly 200 passengers stranded until rescue teams intervened. Officials stressed that contingency measures are being coordinated with disaster management teams.
The uncertainty has put parents and students in a difficult position. While academic schedules remain intact, many worry about commuting through flooded areas. Education experts note that repeated disruptions underline the urgent need for resilient urban infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather without compromising children’s safety or access to learning. Officials stated that the government has directed district collectors to remain on high alert and provide immediate relief in case of loss to life, property or agriculture. Emergency teams remain deployed across critical regions, and the state has reiterated its commitment to long-term climate adaptation.
While Mumbai schools continue as normal for now, the broader picture across Maharashtra reflects the challenges of balancing education with safety in an era of unpredictable weather. For families, the call is clear — vigilance, timely information, and adaptability will remain essential as the monsoon intensifies.
Also Read : Mumbai Waterlogging Cancels Many Western Line Trains, Passengers Face Long Travel Delays
