Mumbai: Maharashtra continues to face severe disruption due to heavy rainfall, with at least 10 people losing their lives over the past 48 hours and more than 11,800 residents evacuated from flood-prone areas. The downpour has battered several districts, particularly Mumbai, Nashik, Solapur, and the Marathwada region, where overflowing dams and swollen rivers have increased the flood threat.

According to officials, Nashik reported four deaths, including three from a house collapse, while Dharashiv and Ahilyanagar registered two fatalities each. Jalna and Yavatmal reported one each. The National Disaster Response Force has deployed 16 teams across the state, with additional support on standby in Pune. Army units also joined rescue operations, saving over 170 stranded residents in Marathwada.

Solapur district has been among the worst affected, with 4,002 people rescued and 6,500 taking shelter in relief camps. In Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar’s Paithan area, about 7,000 people were evacuated after authorities opened all gates of the Jayakwadi dam due to rising water inflows. Other dams, including Ujjani and Sina Kolegaon, also released large volumes of water, adding to downstream flood risks.

Rainfall intensity has been particularly high in Marathwada, with some circles recording nearly 200 mm in 24 hours. In Mumbai, several areas received more than 50 mm of rainfall in just five hours, causing waterlogging and traffic disruption. Schools in Palghar district were ordered closed as a precaution.

The India Meteorological Department has issued red alerts for seven districts, including Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Pune, and Nashik, warning of extremely heavy rain. Orange and yellow alerts remain in place for surrounding regions.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis have directed local administrations to remain on high alert, shift residents from vulnerable areas, and ensure timely relief. The state has also announced a relief package of ₹1,339 crore for farmers affected by rains earlier in the monsoon season.

Meanwhile, opposition leaders have called for a special legislative session to address the worsening crisis.

Authorities warn that continued rainfall and dam discharges may intensify flooding in the coming days, and rescue efforts remain ongoing across multiple districts.