Mahalaxmi Express Train: At least 700 passengers were stranded as Mahalaxmi Express held up between Badlapur and Vangani station in Mumbai due to heavy rains Saturday morning. There is severe waterlogging on the tracks of the route due to continuous heavy downpour from last night.
All 700 people have been rescued, including nine pregnant women. Ambulances with 37 doctors and gynaecologists have been deployed for an emergency. All necessary arrangements like food, transportation, and shelter have been made at Sahyadri Mangal Karayalay. Fourteen buses and three tempos arranged are for further movement.
“Due to a raging Ulhas river, the Mahalaxmi Express train got stuck at Chamtoli within the limits of Badlapur due to flooded tracks. The passengers were safe, but the only concern was a rise in water level on the tracks,” Resident Deputy Collector (Thane) Shivaji Patil said.
A team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) arrived at the location where Mahalaxmi Express is held up. Eight flood rescue teams from the Navy including three diving teams have been mobilised with rescue material, inflatable boats and life jackets. A Sea King helicopter has also been scrambled with divers equipped with auto inflatable craft for deployment in the area as advance assessment party. Western Naval Command is keeping a close watch on the situation and is in constant touch with the state administration to respond as required and provide necessary assistance in flood-affected areas.
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