Pune Municipal Corporation’s Monsoon Preparations Ineffective Amid Heavy Rains

Pune, 26th July 2024: In the name of development, cement roads, blocked or diverted natural streams, and encroachments have caused flooding in Pune. Additionally, the Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) claim that the works on monsoon channels and sewage channels had been completed has proven false. Instead of becoming a ‘smart city,’ the harsh reality of Pune City has come to light.

Flooding occurred in some parts of the city due to the accumulation of water. The flood that hit Ambil Odha in 2019 has repeated this year. Against this backdrop, geography and environment expert Dr. Shrikant Gabale stated, “More than 200 millimetres of rain fell in the dam area, while 115 millimetres of rain fell in the city. Heavy rainfall in a short time and the inadequate capacity of city channels to carry water caused waterlogging. Apart from that, waterlogging is more common in areas with cement roads, especially at intersections. Streams have been blocked, their flows diverted, and the number of natural streams has decreased. Therefore, instead of flowing away, the water spreads elsewhere. Plastic accumulated in drains, streams, and wastewater channels also obstructs the flow of water.”

Construction in flood line areas is prohibited. However, most of the waterlogged areas in the city are due to constructions in the flood line. “How can such constructions be allowed?” he questioned. “It is necessary to clean the rain channels for the flow of rainwater. However, looking at the current situation in the city, did the municipal corporation do this work this year?” he added.