Heavy Rainfall in Maharashtra: All Agencies Put on Alert – CM Devendra Fadnavis

Cabinet reviews situation; immediate assessment of damages ordered

Mumbai, Aug 2025 : In view of the situation created by heavy rainfall across the state, all agencies have been directed to remain on high alert. Instructions have been given to district officials to provide immediate relief in cases of loss of life, livestock, and damage to houses. Farmers’ crop losses must also be promptly assessed, and compensation should be disbursed as per NDRF guidelines, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said today.

Speaking to media representatives after the state cabinet meeting, CM Fadnavis said that the situation in Maharashtra was reviewed during the meeting. Initial estimates suggest that around 12 to 14 lakh acres of crops have been affected. Since the intensity of rainfall has not subsided, agencies including NDRF, SDRF, and disaster management authorities have been instructed to maintain full vigilance and coordination. Weather alerts are being issued to citizens every three hours based on inputs from the Meteorological Department.

In Nanded district, a cloudburst-like situation has reportedly led to the death of eight people. Disaster control rooms across the state have been asked to stay alert and ensure smooth information-sharing and coordination.

Coordination with neighboring states
Due to heavy rainfall, water discharge from various projects is being closely monitored. Coordination is also being maintained with neighboring states to regulate water release from dams. Encouraging cooperation has been received, particularly regarding additional discharge from Hippargi. Coordination efforts are also ongoing with Telangana’s water resources department.

Close watch on Mumbai
Mumbai has been the worst-hit by heavy rainfall. Since yesterday, the city has witnessed continuous downpours, with today’s rainfall exceeding extreme rainfall thresholds within just a few hours. Several low-lying areas were waterlogged. However, coordinated efforts by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and state agencies are underway. Suburban local train services were disrupted for several hours. As a precautionary measure, offices in Mumbai city were given a holiday.

A red alert had already been issued for Vasai and Palghar areas due to the low-pressure belt in the Bay of Bengal. Such conditions inevitably bring heavy rainfall, but the state has ensured that alerts are sent out every three hours to keep citizens informed about rainfall intensity and locations.

Rivers at danger levels
Many rivers across the state are witnessing heavy inflows, with some reaching warning levels. In Mumbai, the Mithi River crossed the danger mark, forcing the evacuation of nearly 400 people to safer places. The situation is now under control. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is personally monitoring the situation in Mumbai and has visited the Mithi River area.

He admitted that desilting of the Mithi River was poorly managed, and now several serious concerns are emerging. The BMC has been directed to take up fresh desilting work immediately, and strict orders have been issued in this regard.