Naval rescue teams moved into Poisar in Borivali, in north Mumbai, and Air India colony at Santacruz, in western Mumbai, to evacuate the people who were stranded in the downpour.

Naval personnel, including divers, reached both the areas with Gemini inflatable boats to bring out people to safety.

Speaking to rediff.com, Captain Abhay Lambhate, chief public relations officer of the ministry of defence, said, "In all we have given 11 diving teams to the Mumbai police and they are working under the leadership of Police Commissioner A N Roy. At present two teams have gone to Borivali and Air India Colony. The other teams are ready to carry out any emergency task that may be required."

Air India Colony in suburban Santacruz, which is situated in a low-lying region, is among the worst hit areas in Mumbai. According to locals, the colony residents have gone without electricity for the past one week, and their condition has worsened in the fresh round of rains.

The naval teams are based in Crawford Market in Fort area, Vakola police station in Santacruz, and Panvel police station outside Mumbai.

The Indian Army is also on stand-by and will be asked to move in case the crisis in the city worsens, the PRO said.

"Five medical naval teams are also on alert at Ashwini Hospital in Colaba and are ready to provide any assistance to Mumbaikars if they are in distress," added Captain Lambhate.

Mumbai Help

Terrible Tuesday: Mumbai copes with a tragedy