The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a Red Alert for Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, and Palghar districts, forecasting extremely heavy rainfall from August 19 to 21. The IMD attributed the extreme weather to cyclonic circulations and a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal.
Severe rains have disrupted operations at Nhava Sheva Port (JNPT), reporting suspension of vessel movements today due to strong winds, poor visibility, and waterlogging. Vessel berthing delays and irregular schedules are compounding congestion at the port.
Port connectivity has also been severely affected, with road access to Container Freight Stations (CFSs) hampered by flooding. Empty container pick-ups are facing delays of 8–10 hours, while cargo movement across Maharashtra and Gujarat is slowed by transit delays of 6–8 hours. Laden container gate-ins are also delayed amid long queues, and buffer yards are nearing capacity due to vessel backlogs.
The bad weather has hit rail and road transport, with several railway tracks and arterial roads submerged, disrupting both cargo and passenger movement.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as the heavy downpour is expected to persist until Wednesday.