As the South-West monsoon sweeps into Mumbai, bringing much-awaited relief from the scorching summer heat, Mumbaikars have eagerly embraced the arrival of the first rains. From sharing their joy on social media platforms to venturing outdoors on cycles, the city is alive with the enthusiasm for the wet, cool weather.
Pankit Fariya, a member of a cyclist group from Ghatkopar, shares their recent experiences, stating, “We started our rides from Sunday onwards. We explored Bandra Bandstand, Shivaji Park, Marine Drive, and Gateway of India. It was a delightful experience to be outside, feeling the fresh breeze, smelling the petrichor from the moist earth, although we had to be cautious due to slippery roads in the initial rains.”
Chetan Shah, an IT company founder and avid cyclist, recounts a 60-km ride from Juhu to Gateway of India and back, expressing the group’s excitement after enduring the heat for two months. “We enjoyed getting drenched in the rain, stopping for filter coffee breaks and capturing selfies along the scenic route,” says Shah.
Madan Singh, a cyclist commuting from Ghodbunder Road to Vikhroli, echoes the sentiment, saying, “Riding in the rain yesterday was an indescribable feeling. I’ve cycled through all seasons, but the monsoons are truly special.”
However, amidst the joy of the monsoons, concerns about safety emerge, particularly regarding the condition of roads. JP Shetty, a Thane-based cyclist, highlights the challenges faced by commuters due to potholes on Jogeshwari Link Road (JVLR), emphasizing the need for immediate attention to ensure safer rides for cyclists.
While the initial showers also brought reports of waterlogged roads and flooding in certain areas, many Mumbaikars expressed relief from the sweltering heat. Social media platforms buzzed with comments reflecting a mix of excitement and practical concerns about commuting during the rainy season.
One social media user shared, “Breezy, foggy Mumbai mornings have arrived, signaling the onset of the monsoon. As we Mumbaikars navigate through work commutes, the misty air and gentle rain add enchantment to our city, evoking dreams and memories with every step.”
Another user’s comment captured the ambivalence often felt during the rainy season: “Mumbai is magical in the rain until I have to travel. Then I switch back to grumbling about the inconveniences.”
The enthusiasm for the monsoon season among Mumbaikars is palpable, as they adapt to the changes brought by the rains while cherishing the cooler, more refreshing atmosphere it brings to the bustling city.
Sources By Agencies