Dust storm engulfs parts of Mumbai region, disrupting visibility and traffic

A massive dust storm swept across parts of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region on Thursday evening, covering several residential and commercial areas in thick clouds of dust and sharply reducing visibility.

Areas including Kalyan and Mulund were among the worst affected as strong winds carried dust across roads, buildings and neighbourhoods, causing concern among residents.

Videos circulating on social media showed large dust clouds engulfing streets and residential complexes, while motorists struggled with poor visibility.

According to local weather observers, the dust storm developed over Mumbai’s eastern suburbs before moving westwards towards Thane and other parts of Mumbai.

Weather monitoring social media account ‘Mumbai Rains’ reported an alert around 4.30 pm, warning that the storm was expected to impact Thane and the wider metropolitan region for the next one to two hours.

No major injuries or significant property damage had been reported at the time of reporting, though authorities said weather conditions continued to be closely monitored across the region.