Mumbai: Aarey Flooded, Nala in Unit 22 Overflows; Picnic Point to Marol Subway Also Submerged
Mumbai, 18th August 2025: Heavy rains on Monday validated long-standing fears of Aarey residents and environmentalists that Metro-3 car shed construction would cause flooding. The subway between Aarey Picnic Point and Marol Road was submerged with water above knee level, creating severe difficulties for motorists and pedestrians. In addition, the nala in Aarey’s Unit 22 overflowed, flooding the adjoining road.
Residents alleged that the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC) blocked natural rainwater drainage and converted the Picnic Point–Marol route into an underground passage, leading to waterlogging.
The Metro-3 car shed, built on 33 hectares of Aarey forest land despite strong opposition from the Save Aarey movement, has been controversial since its inception. Activists had warned it would worsen flooding in Mumbai. Monday’s rains proved those concerns true, according to residents.
Local resident Harshali Valvi said the flooding created hardships, especially for school children traveling to Marol. Another resident, Prakash Bhoir, noted that the nala in Unit 22 overflowed due to narrowing during metro works, leading to traffic jams and stranded vehicles.
MMRC officials said the subway had already been handed over to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), but offered no comment on whether their works caused the flooding. BMC authorities stated they had taken note and would act.
Environmental activist Stalin Dayanand of Vanashakti accused MMRC of causing flooding by constructing walls in Oshiwara and Mithi river floodplains, demanding their demolition. Activist Amrita Bhattacharya also blamed Metro-3 works, confirming complaints to the BMC and announcing plans to approach MMRC.
