Mumbai: IMD issues red alert; schools shut, trains delayed after heavy showers

Mumbai: With heavy rains pounding Mumbai and its suburbs, the weather department on Wednesday issued a 'red alert' for the city and adjoining areas and asked the authorities to be prepared to handle any situation.

Earlier, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation PRO said, “In wake of IMD’s warning of heavy rainfall for rest of the day, schools shall remain closed on Wednesday. Principals of schools where students are already in, are requested to take precautions and ensure that they are sent back home carefully and safely.”

Due to heavy rainfall, track failure occurred at Virar station earlier on Wednesday due to which train timetables have been revised on the Western Railway route of the suburban train services.

"Due to track failure in Virar, slow trains in down direction towards Virar will be running between Churchgate to Vasai Road stations on Wednesday," Western Railway informed in a release.

"All remaining trains are running late by 15-20 minutes. AC-EMU local train will be running between Churchgate and Vasai stations until further notice," the Western Railway added.

IMD has forecasted heavy rain at isolated places in Mumbai till September 6.

Mumbai police’s tweet read: "IMD authorities have indicated high rainfall weather for Mumbai and other adjoining districts for the next two days. Please take adequate precautions and ensure safety. Dial 100 in case of an emergency. Take care Mumbai.”