Mumbai: The heavy rainfall that has been persistently occurring in regions of Maharashtra has resulted in flooding leading to significant disruptions and tragic loss of life. As per official data, 72 people have lost their lives, while at least nine others are reported missing and 93 have been injured since June 1, 2023.
One of the severely affected areas is Vasai in Palghar district, where waterlogging has brought everyday life to a standstill. Roads have turned into waterways, submerging parked vehicles and making it difficult for commuters to navigate through the inundated streets.
Tragically, the heavy rainfall has also resulted in fatal accidents. A tragic incident occurred in Thane district where a young man, aged 23 tragically lost his life when his motorcycle collided with a pothole and he was subsequently struck by a speeding concrete mixer truck.
The India Meteorological Department has issued alerts, both red and orange, for districts including Thane, Raigad, Pune, Palghar, Mumbai and Ratnagiri. These alerts are cautioning the residents about heavy to rainfall. Additionally an orange alert has been issued for Kolhapur district for the five days.
Teams, from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been sent to Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, Kolhapur and Sangli to manage the rainfall and subsequent flooding.
The situation took a tragic turn when a massive landslide struck the Irshalwadi hamlet in Raigad district, claiming the lives of at least 22 people. Rescue operations are ongoing to locate 86 villagers who are still missing.
The heavy rainfall, during the monsoon season has caused damage, in Maharashtra. The authorities and rescue teams are putting in efforts to offer assistance and aid to the communities that have been impacted.