Pune City BJP Launches 24/7 Helpline and Relief Center Amid Flood Crisis

Reported by Tikam Shekhawat

Pune, 25th July 2024: In response to the severe flooding caused by recent heavy rains, Pune City BJP has set up an urgent help centre and helpline to address the crisis. City President Dheeraj Ghate announced that all BJP offices, including those of MPs and MLAs in the city, will function as 24-hour relief centres for the next eight days.

Ghate appealed to residents in need of assistance to contact the city office via the helplines: 9066515656 or 9928814646. An emergency online meeting was convened by the BJP to coordinate efforts and manage the flood situation effectively.

Union Minister of State (Civil Aviation and Cooperation) Muralidhar Mohol, State Higher Education and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil, MP Medha Kulkarni, all local MLAs, former corporators, city office bearers, and mandal presidents participated in the meeting. Ghate reported that 3,000 BJP workers have been deployed across the city since early this morning. Their efforts include rescuing trapped citizens, providing first aid, and arranging for essentials such as accommodation, tea, breakfast, and food.

Muralidhar Mohol, currently in Delhi for Parliament sessions, has been coordinating with the District Collector and Pune Municipal Commissioner since early today. He explained that heavy rainfall in Varasgaon, Panshet, and Khadakwasla dam areas, which supply water to Pune, led to the flooding. The release of 40,000 cusecs of water from the dam, followed by an increased release of 55,000 cusecs, exacerbated the situation. Mohol emphasized that this measure was necessary and that BJP workers are collaborating closely with the administration.

Chandrakant Patil highlighted the seriousness of the situation and noted that, following instructions from Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, NDRF personnel have been deployed to assist with relief efforts. Deputy Chief Minister and Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar has reached Pune to oversee the situation and coordinate with local authorities. Patil assured that the BJP is mobilizing resources for immediate relief, including medicines, food, water, clothing, and temporary accommodation.

Patil also emphasized that all decisions at the government level will be taken promptly to provide maximum assistance to affected residents.