26 die as heavy rains lash Mumbai

AT least 26 people were killed after several homes collapsed in Mumbai following landslides triggered by heavy monsoon rains, officials said Sunday.

The rain-related accidents occurred in two suburbs of Chembur and Vikhroli after torrential downpours pounded the metropolis from Saturday evening. Residents were advised not to venture out in the open.

Nineteen people were killed when six shanty homes collapsed in Chembur, local police officials said. Nine of those injured, who were rescued from the debris, were taken to hospital. Separately, seven people were killed and two injured when several huts collapsed in Vikhroli, domestic media reported citing municipal officials.

Rescue operations were continuing in both areas as a few more people were feared to be trapped.

Rescue work were hampered owing to heavy rains and difficulties in access to congested localities where heavy equipment had to be taken in. Local television showed rescuers using hands to clear the rubble and retrieve bodies.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences and announced financial compensation for the injured and families of those who died.

Several areas in the city were inundated after the heavy rains and train services were disrupted, paralyzing daily life in India’s financial capital.

Mumbai will continue to receive heavy rainfall over the next five days, the regional weather office said.

Landslides and floods are common during India’s monsoon season.

Mumbai will continue to receive heavy rainfall over the next five days