Heavy rain alert in Maharashtra: Schools closed, red alert declared

The India Meteorological Department (IMD)'s latest forecasts have put authorities on alert due to heavy rainfall expected to affect a large part of Maharashtra. According to statements, the capital Mumbai, Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), Konkan region and central parts of the state will be under a siege of heavy rain between July 4 and 6. The office of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis (CMO), emphasizing the seriousness of the situation, issued an official warning for citizens to be vigilant and take necessary precautions during this period, drawing attention to potential risks.

In an advisory circular prepared by the State Disaster Management Department, it was confirmed that Mumbai city along with Raigad, Thane, Palghar, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg districts will experience heavy rainfall within a three-day period. In particular, in the ghat (mountainous) areas of Satara, Pune and Nashik districts, rainfall is expected to intensify from moderate to heavy levels, making life difficult. Officials added that the expected meteorological scenario would not only cause a change in scenery but could also lead to disruptions in local transport networks and minor structural damage.

As part of preventive measures, the Chief Minister's Office called on citizens to exercise extreme caution when traveling in low-lying areas and winding mountain roads. It was emphasized that it is vital to contact local authorities in case of any emergency or need for assistance. In this context, it was reminded that residents of Mumbai should call the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's helpline 1916, while residents of Palghar region should call the specified regional lines. It was also announced that those in the Thane region and Panvel residents could reach disaster management units via specially designated phone numbers.

As the intensity of the rainfall increased and weather conditions worsened, local administrations raised the alarm level to the maximum and reinforced their measures. The Palghar district administration officially announced that all schools, colleges, and Anganwadi centers would be closed for two days starting Friday due to safety concerns. A strict warning was sent to citizens not to leave their homes except for urgent and mandatory business, and a similar decision was made within the limits of Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC).

Following the escalation of the orange alert to a red alert for the Thane region to ensure the safety of educational institutions, KDMC announced that classes in all official and private schools were suspended. It was confirmed that all educational institutions at primary, secondary, and high school levels adhering to the State Board, CBSE, ICSE, and CIE curricula will remain closed on Saturday. Against this flood risk, which could bring life in the region to a standstill, officials stated that every sensitivity is being shown for the safety of life and property, and developments are being closely monitored.