Mumbai Rains: Palghar District Issues Official Notice, Declares School Closure Amid IMD Heavy Rainfall Warning
Amid relentless monsoon downpour across the Konkan belt, the Palghar district administration has officially issued a notice declaring closure of all schools and colleges for safety reasons. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast “heavy to very heavy rainfall at a few places, with extremely heavy rainfall at isolated spots,” prompting urgent precautionary measures from authorities.
On Monday, the Palghar District Disaster Management Authority under Collector Dr. Indu Rani Jadhav released an order under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, announcing the closure of all Anganwadis, government and private primary/secondary schools, Zilla Parishad schools, municipal schools, aided and unaided institutions, and colleges in the district on 29 September 2025.
The notice clearly states that the decision was made “to ensure the safety of students and staff considering the IMD’s forecast of heavy to very heavy rainfall.” The order also emphasizes that teachers, principals, and non-teaching staff should remain available for any emergency duties as instructed by the local administration.
Why the Closure Was Ordered
The IMD issued a red alert for Palghar, predicting widespread rain with intense spells. The administration feared disruptions such as road flooding, transport delays, and risk to school children traveling long distances. In previous years, Palghar has experienced severe waterlogging and transport standstills under similar weather patterns, making early precautionary steps necessary.
The official notice also refers to the Regional Meteorological Centre, Mumbai’s advisory dated 28.09.2025, which specifically mentioned the likelihood of very heavy rainfall at a few places and extremely heavy rainfall at isolated locations within Palghar. Citing these forecasts, the district invoked its powers under the Disaster Management Act to minimize risk to life and property.
Impact Across the Region
Mumbai, Thane, Raigad, and Palghar districts all recorded significant rain overnight. Low-lying areas in Vasai, Virar, and Dahanu witnessed waterlogging by early morning, while highways reported slow-moving traffic. In Mumbai suburbs, BEST buses were diverted and railway services were slowed down due to safety measures.
Parents in Palghar welcomed the school closure decision, noting that sudden intense spells often coincide with school timings, creating panic among families. Teachers and school management committees have assured parents that classes and examinations will be rescheduled.
Key Administrative Instructions from the Notice
- All schools, Anganwadis, and colleges in Palghar district to remain closed on 29.09.2025.
- Principals, teachers, and non-teaching staff must remain available for emergency duties as assigned by the administration.
- Local authorities and disaster response teams to stay on alert for waterlogging, tree falls, and any incidents.
- Citizens advised to avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors during intense rainfall.
What Next?
Authorities will review the situation by Monday evening. If rainfall intensity persists, a fresh order may be issued extending closures. Meanwhile, municipal and Zilla Parishad control rooms remain functional 24/7, coordinating with police, fire, and health departments.
Editor’s note: This article combines field updates with excerpts from the official notices released by Palghar district authorities on 28–29 September 2025. Readers are advised to follow local government advisories for the latest information.
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