The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has assigned senior officers of the rank of Deputy Municipal Commissioner to oversee disaster management operations during night hours. This initiative aims to ensure rapid and efficient responses to incidents of waterlogging, flooding, tree falls, and other emergencies that may arise due to heavy rains.
A senior municipal official elaborated on the multi-departmental coordination involved in managing such situations. “Various civic departments, including sewage, roads, gardens, fire control, and ward offices, are mobilised as per the requirements,” the official stated. “The disaster management control room receives information from citizens, which must be swiftly communicated to the relevant departments for coordinated rescue efforts and necessary assistance.”
The official emphasised the need for senior-level oversight during the night. “Coordination with the District Collectorate, state irrigation department, and state power utility is crucial, depending on the situation. Therefore, having a senior officer on night duty at the Disaster Management Cell is essential,” said the official.Under this new arrangement, a designated officer will be on duty from 8 pm to 8 am, ensuring continuous vigilance. Daytime operations will be handled by officers during regular office hours. The officers assigned to night duty include Raju Nandkar, Madhav Jagtap, Sandip Kadam, Nitin Udas, Yunus Pathan, Rahul Jagtap, and Vijay Landge.
These officers will oversee the disaster management cells at ward offices, conducting surprise inspections to ensure proper functioning and prompt response to calls. They will also coordinate with the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), irrigation department, and District Collectorate, sharing critical information with the disaster management cells of the Pune division and state government.The initiative underscores PMC’s commitment to enhancing its disaster management capabilities during the monsoon season, ensuring the safety and well-being of Pune’s residents. By deploying senior officers for night duties, the PMC aims to provide a robust and responsive disaster management system capable of addressing emergencies swiftly and efficiently.
