Mumbai, August 20 — Continuous heavy rainfall for the third straight day brought Mumbai to a standstill on Wednesday, forcing authorities to take emergency measures as the city battled waterlogging, traffic disruptions, and transport paralysis.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, and Ratnagiri, warning of intense rainfall accompanied by gusty winds. Responding to the situation, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) declared a holiday for offices and schools to reduce travel risks.

Public transport faced major setbacks. Local trains, considered the city’s lifeline, remained suspended for nearly eight hours on Central, Western, and Harbour lines due to waterlogged tracks. Though limited services resumed later, thousands of commuters were stranded across stations. Road traffic also slowed to a crawl as key junctions in Sion, Andheri, and Kurla reported waist-deep water.

Air travel was not spared. Flight operations at Mumbai Airport were delayed, with airlines issuing advisories urging passengers to check schedules before heading to the terminal. Meanwhile, civic teams worked through the night to clear waterlogged areas, though high tides complicated relief efforts.

In a separate development, the Maharashtra cabinet approved a revamp of the District Planning and Development Council (DPDC) fund, aiming to streamline approvals and improve local-level projects.

With the monsoon showing no signs of weakening, officials have urged citizens to stay indoors unless necessary. Emergency helplines remain active as Mumbai braces for more downpours.