MUMBAI: Torrential rains lashed Mumbai, with several areas recording over 200 mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours, triggering widespread waterlogging, traffic chaos, and delays in public transport, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Vikhroli in the eastern suburbs bore the brunt, recording 255.5 mm, the highest in the city, followed by Byculla at 241 mm, Juhu at 221.5 mm, and Bandra at 211 mm. The Santacruz observatory, representing the western suburbs, logged 238.2 mm, while Colaba in south Mumbai recorded 110.4 mm. Mahalaxmi saw relatively less rain at 72.5 mm.

The IMD issued a 'red alert' for Mumbai and its suburbs, forecasting "very heavy to extremely heavy" rainfall accompanied by gusty winds of 45-55 kmph through Tuesday. High tides of 3.75 meters at 9:16 AM and 3.14 meters at 8:53 PM exacerbated concerns about flooding in low-lying areas. Waterlogging disrupted daily life, with reports of inundation on railway tracks in Dadar, Matunga, Parel, and Sion, as well as at Hindmata, Andheri Subway, and sections of the Eastern Express Highway, Mumbai-Gujarat Highway, and Eastern Freeway.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) announced the closure of all government and semi-government offices, except for essential services, as a precautionary measure. Private establishments were urged to allow employees to work from home to minimize travel amid the deluge. "Due to the red alert and continuous heavy rainfall, all BMC and state-run offices, excluding essential services, will remain closed today," the BMC stated.

Railway services faced disruptions, with Central Railway reporting delays of 10 minutes on the main line and 5 minutes on the harbour line due to water accumulation, though authorities maintained that water levels remained below the tracks. Western Railway cited poor visibility as a cause for minor delays. A technical snag in the signalling system between Ambivali and Shahad stations further hampered suburban train operations.

The city recorded average rainfall of 186.43 mm in the island city, 208.78 mm in the eastern suburbs, and 238.19 mm in the western suburbs in the 24 hours ending at 8 AM, an official reported. As Mumbai braces for more rain, residents are advised to stay cautious and avoid unnecessary travel.