Roads and train tracks submerged, schools shut as heavy rain batters Mumbai

Mumbai and Pune have been reeling under torrential rains that disrupted daily life and led to widespread waterlogging. (Express Photo by Deepak Joshi)

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Mumbai on Thursday. Schools and colleges have been shut. Though road and rail traffic began operating Thursday morning after the water receded, the heavy rainfall alert remains in place for the rest of the day. (Express Photo by Deepak Joshi)

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and police have urged residents to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary. "Mumbaikars, if not required, avoid stepping out of home," the BMC posted on X (formerly Twitter). (Express Photo by Deepak Joshi)

In Pune, the situation remains equally concerning. Heavy rains lashed the city and adjoining Pimpri-Chinchwad area on Wednesday, causing waterlogging and severe traffic snarls. (Express Photo by Ganesh Shirsekar)

The IMD issued a red alert for the region, forecasting more rain throughout Thursday. Pune received 131 mm of rainfall, and authorities have warned of potential water discharge from local dams as water levels continue to rise. (Express Photo by Arul Horizon)

District Collector Suhas Diwase declared a holiday for all schools and colleges in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad late Wednesday night, responding to the worsening weather. Diwase's decision was prompted by the overnight deluge and ongoing concerns about further downpour. (Express Photo by Arul Horizon)

As the rains pounded the city, the total water stock in the seven lakes that supply Mumbai’s water shot up to 99.26 percent, according to data from Wednesday morning. (Express Photo by Arul Horizon)

The water levels in these lakes have now almost surpassed the full capacity, ensuring a robust water supply for the city but also raising concerns about potential overflow if rains continue unabated. (Express Photo by Amit Chakravarty)

Both cities remain on high alert as authorities brace for more rainfall. In Mumbai, city officials are focusing on emergency preparedness, while Pune's authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, particularly in low-lying areas vulnerable to flooding. Express Photo by Amit Chakravarty)

As the wet spell continues, residents of Mumbai and Pune are advised to exercise caution, follow official advisories, and avoid venturing outdoors unless necessary. Express Photo by Amit Chakravarty)