Mumbai: Dust storm, strong wind engulfs city; many feared trapped in hoarding board mishap

Mumbai, on May 13, witnessed heavy rain accompanied by dust storms and gusty winds.

The inclement weather condition led to disruption of metro and local train services. 

Earlier, the India Meteorological Department, Mumbai predicted a thunderstorm accompanied by lightning and moderate to intense spells of rain for Mumbai, Thane and Palghar regions. 

Advising people to stay cautious, the weather department warned that gusty winds reaching 40-50 kmph are likely to persist in isolated places in the districts of Mumbai over the next four hours.

The suburbs of Dadar, Kurla, Mahim, Ghatkopar, Mulund and Vikhroli witnessed heavy rains with gusty winds. Meanwhile, other parts of south Mumbai witnessed drizzling.

Meanwhile, at least seven persons were injured after an iron hoarding collapsed amid rain and gusty wind at the Police Ground petrol pump along the Eastern Express Highway in Pantnagar.

"Some people are feared trapped under the hoarding and a search and rescue operation is underway," officials said.

An electric pole also fell on the road due to the storm near Belapur Savita Chemical on Thane-Belapur Road.

The unprecedented weather led to metro services being suspended between Aarey and Andheri East metro stations after a banner landed on the overheard wire due to strong winds, as per agencies.

On the other hand, suburban services on Central Railway and the Main Line were also suspended, the chief spokesperson of Central Railway said.

Power outages were reported in Kalwa in Thane district and some other areas.