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Monorail Incident in Mumbai

In Mumbai, a Monorail train carrying approximately 200 passengers experienced a power failure, halting operations between Mysore Colony and Bhakti Park stations during heavy rainfall on Tuesday evening. Rescue efforts commenced for over an hour to assist those stranded.

Passengers reported a state of panic inside the train, which operates on an elevated track, as the air conditioning system ceased functioning, leading to complaints of suffocation.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reassured the public via a post on X, stating that there was no need for panic and that all individuals would be safely evacuated. He also announced that an investigation into the incident would be initiated.

Fadnavis noted, "A Monorail is currently immobilized between Chembur and Bhakti Park due to technical issues. Agencies including MMRDA, the fire brigade, and the municipal corporation are on-site, prioritizing passenger safety."

He urged patience from the public, confirming that he was in communication with relevant officials and that an inquiry would follow to determine the cause of the incident.

Rescue operations involved the fire brigade utilizing three snorkel cranes to evacuate passengers.

The train stopped around 6:15 PM, and it took an hour before rescue efforts began, according to passengers.

Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani confirmed the presence of around 200 individuals on board.

The Mumbai Monorail's initial statement described the situation as a "minor power supply issue."

Medical teams were dispatched to the scene, and BEST buses were arranged to transport rescued passengers, Gagrani added.

One passenger recounted being trapped for nearly one hour and 45 minutes, expressing fear due to a lack of communication from authorities. Some passengers struggled to breathe and attempted to break windows, with a few fainting.

Another passenger mentioned the absence of air conditioning and electricity inside the train.

Due to heavy rains disrupting local services on the harbour line, many opted for the Monorail, only to face this challenging situation.

Mumbai has been experiencing severe rainfall for the past two days, significantly affecting daily life in the city.