Maharashtra remained affected by strong monsoon conditions on Sunday as intense rainfall caused widespread disruption in Mumbai, Pune and nearby areas. The India Meteorological Department stated that the wet weather would continue, leading officials to close schools, boost emergency readiness and advise residents against nonessential travel.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation announced a holiday on Monday for all government, private and civic schools and colleges following an Orange Alert for Mumbai that predicted heavy rain and strong winds.
Although classes were suspended, government and private offices operated normally. The civic authority asked people to leave home only when essential and to heed official guidance while poor weather persisted.
The closures followed several days of continuous downpours that produced waterlogging, traffic jams, suburban rail delays and other rain-related incidents.
Pune district received a Red Alert for July 6 because of forecasts for extremely heavy rainfall. District Collector Jitendra Dudi ordered schools closed across the district and urged residents to stay indoors unless travel was unavoidable. People were also told to keep clear of rivers and other risky spots.
Heavy showers in recent days have hampered daily routines throughout Mumbai and its suburbs. Low-lying zones saw flooding, roads became impassable and strong winds brought down trees, damaging homes and infrastructure. Parts of the suburban rail network faced delays after water covered tracks, and civic crews worked to remove debris.
At least five rain-related deaths have occurred in Mumbai since the monsoon began. On Sunday an 18-year-old died when a tree branch fell on him in Aarey Colony, Goregaon East. The same day a 63-year-old man was killed when a large tree collapsed onto his shop in Kurla West. Two earlier incidents claimed an 11-year-old boy in Chembur and a man who fell into an open manhole in Sakinaka.
With more heavy rain expected, disaster teams are stationed at vulnerable sites. Residents have been told to remain inside during intense spells, avoid flooded roads and stay clear of trees and waterlogged zones.
