Mumbai, often referred to as the city’s lifeline, witnessed massive disruptions in its suburban train network on Tuesday, August 19, as relentless rains brought the Central and Harbour Lines to a standstill. According to Central Railway officials, train services between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and Thane on the Central Line, as well as between Chunnabhatti (CLA) and CSMT on the Harbour Line, have been suspended indefinitely due to severe waterlogging caused by torrential downpours.

The Mumbai Division of Central Railway confirmed that shuttle services are operational only on select stretches, including Thane–Karjat, Thane–Khopoli, Thane–Kasara, and between Mankhurd and Panvel on the Harbour Line. However, no services are running on the CSMT–Thane and CSMT–CLA sections until further notice.

Earlier updates shared by DRM Mumbai CR on X (formerly Twitter) stated: “Due to heavy rains in the Mumbai region and #Waterlogging, Mainline train services between CSMT and Thane station are suspended until further notice.” Another update noted that commuters are facing delays, with trains running behind schedule and bunching reported between Kurla and Vadala Road.

Adding to the woes, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecast predicted more heavy to very heavy rainfall across Mumbai over the next few days, with extremely heavy rainfall likely at isolated spots on August 19. The situation is expected to improve gradually, with moderate showers predicted for August 22.

On Monday, August 18, incessant rains had already crippled normal life in Mumbai, flooding several arterial roads and rail tracks. Visuals from Wadala showed railway tracks completely submerged, forcing local trains to crawl at a slow pace. Authorities have urged commuters to plan their travel accordingly as restoration work continues.