Heavy Rains Ground Flights, Disrupt Transport Services In Mumbai

NEW DELHI, July 8 (Bernama) -- Heavy rains crippled India's financial capital, Mumbai, causing disruptions to flights, road and rail transport services across the city.

Dozens of flights at Mumbai Airport, a busy transport hub, were cancelled on Monday after heavy rains lashed the western Indian city.

"In light of the inclement weather and forecast of heavy to very heavy rains, Mumbai Airport advises all passengers to check their flight status with their respective airlines and leave for the airport a little earlier," the airport said.

More than 50 flights were cancelled by afternoon due to the downpour, local media reported.

IndiGo, the country's biggest airline, said its flights were affected due to heavy rains and air traffic congestion in Mumbai.

"Heavy rains in Mumbai are affecting flight operations and resulting in cancellations of some of our flights," Air India said.

Videos on social media showed people wading through waist-deep water and vehicles stuck in traffic jams.

Civic body Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation said suburban train services, the city's lifeline, were disrupted and it provided snacks and water to stranded passengers at various railway stations.

Mumbai recorded over 300 mm rainfall in a six-hour period until 7 am on Monday.

-- BERNAMA