Devastating Storm Hits Mumbai, Injuring 37 and Trapping Dozens Under Debris
Mumbai, 13th May 2024: Mumbai was plunged into chaos today as a sudden storm and heavy rain wreaked havoc across the city, resulting in a tragic incident at Railway Petrol Pump, Samta Colony, Ghatkopar (E). A metal girder measuring 70/50 meters collapsed from a billboard, injuring 37 people, with an estimated 50-60 individuals still trapped under the debris. Mumbai Police, along with the Fire Brigade, BMC, and Mahanagar Gas Ltd, immediately mobilized a search and rescue operation to assist those affected.
The city’s first rainfall of the season, accompanied by a substantial dust storm, descended upon Mumbai around 3 pm, casting darkness over the skyline. While providing relief from the scorching heat, the storm disrupted normal life, causing traffic standstills and widespread chaos in areas like Ghatkopar, Bandra Kurla, and Dharavi.
Operations at Mumbai Airport were temporarily suspended, with 15 flight diversions recorded during the storm. However, operations resumed at 5:03 pm following pre-monsoon runway maintenance completed last week to ensure safe aircraft movements.
The weather office issued alerts for thunderstorms, lightning, and heavy rain with gusty winds of up to 50-60 km/hr in isolated locations in Palghar and Thane districts within the next 3-4 hours. Metro services between Aarey and Andheri East stations were suspended due to a banner entangling overhead wires, while suburban services on Central Railway faced disruptions after an overhead equipment pole between Thane and Mulund stations bent due to strong winds.
In addition to the structural damage, several areas witnessed trees collapsing, including Navi Mumbai’s Aroli Sector 5, leading to traffic diversions and cautious parking by commuters to ensure safety amid the ongoing turbulent weather conditions.
As Mumbai grapples with the aftermath of the storm, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge residents to exercise caution and stay indoors wherever possible.
