Relentless monsoon rains have caused severe flooding in Mumbai, killing at least seven people in the past five days and disrupting transport and daily life across the city.
Mumbai has seen roads submerged, homes inundated in low-lying areas, and educational institutes suspend classes and examinations. The India Meteorological Department has warned of more rain over the next three days.
The city lies on reclaimed land from the sea, with large parts only a few metres above sea level. Urban expansion has disrupted natural water channels, leading to regular flooding in areas such as Hindmata, Kurla and Sion. High tides have further reduced the efficiency of the stormwater drainage system.
After the July 2005 floods that brought 944 mm of rain in 24 hours, authorities launched the BRIMSTOWAD project, installed pumping stations and widened drains. However, many works remain incomplete, and the drainage network struggles with short, intense bursts of rainfall.
A chawl collapse in Mankhurd killed five children. Transport links including the Mumbai-Pune expressway and rail services faced disruptions due to landslides and flooding. Officials noted that pre-monsoon desilting helped in some areas, though governance and accountability remain split across multiple agencies.
