Mumbai Grinds to a Halt as Heavy Rain Triggers Traffic Chaos

MUMBAI: Torrential rainfall battered parts of Mumbai on Saturday, May 24, 2025, causing significant disruptions for commuters as roads became clogged with traffic. Accordingly, the heavy downpour led to widespread congestion, particularly in low-lying areas prone to waterlogging. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported substantial rainfall across the city, exacerbating travel woes for residents.

Local train services, a lifeline for millions of Mumbaikars, faced delays on some routes, though Western Railway and Central Railway reported that their suburban services continued to operate. Commuters, however, experienced slowdowns, with some stranded at stations for extended periods. The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) undertaking diverted several bus routes due to flooded roads, particularly in areas like Sion, Chembur, and Bandra, further complicating travel.

The IMD had issued an orange alert for Mumbai, forecasting heavy to very heavy rainfall, which contributed to the chaotic conditions. Civic authorities, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), urged residents to exercise caution and avoid waterlogged areas. Despite efforts to mitigate flooding, the intensity of the rain overwhelmed drainage systems in several neighborhoods, leading to significant delays for both road and public transport users.