Heavy Rains Force School, College Shut In Pune & Pimpri Chinchwad: Holiday Declared For September 26

In response to ongoing heavy rainfall and forecasts of more to come, authorities in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad have announced the closure of all schools and colleges on September 26, 2024. Pune District Collector Dr. Suhas Diwase made the decision after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an orange alert for the region, predicting continued heavy rain.

The orange alert signals potentially severe weather conditions that could lead to flooding, traffic disruptions, and other safety concerns. With the rains already causing difficulties in many parts of the district, the precautionary closure is aimed at ensuring the safety of students and staff.

This announcement follows similar measures taken in other parts of Maharashtra, as the state continues to face the effects of the monsoon.

Heavy Rains Disrupt Local Trains and Flights in Mumbai, Red Alert Issued

Mumbai continues to face heavy rainfall since Wednesday evening, severely impacting local trains, vehicular traffic, and flights. Several local trains were delayed, and a few were rescheduled due to waterlogging on tracks, particularly between Kurla and Thane, leaving commuters stranded across various stations. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Mumbai, effective until 8 AM on Thursday.

In response to the red alert, both Mumbai and Thane civic authorities have declared a public holiday for all schools and colleges on September 26, citing student safety. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) confirmed, "All schools and colleges under BMC's jurisdiction will remain closed on Thursday for the safety of students."

For September 26, the IMD has also issued a red alert for Palghar and Nashik, with an orange alert for Thane, Raigad, Mumbai, and Pune. The weather department predicts isolated heavy rainfall across Konkan, Goa, and central Maharashtra from September 25-27.