India, July 7 -- Heavy rain and thunderstorm battered parts of the country on Monday and triggered landslides and flash floods in some areas, killing at least four people, causing widespread damage, submerging structures and hitting air, rail and road operations even as authorities in several states stepped up emergency measures with predictions of more showers.

Maharashtra was one of the worst-affected states amid unceasing showers on Monday and reported three rain-related deaths in Pune, taking the toll to 16.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert for Mumbai, Thane and Raigad, warning of more heavy to very heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds.

The rain brought Mumbai and neighbouring districts to a near s...