As heavy rains continue to lash Pune, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has issued a stern warning to citizens regarding the rising risk of vehicle flooding in areas along the riverbanks. In light of the recent incidents where numerous vehicles were submerged due to sudden water releases from nearby dams, the PMC has identified 41 specific locations where parking is highly discouraged.
The areas flagged by the PMC span various parts of the city, including Ektanagar, Patil Estate slums, Pulachi Wadi, Omkareshwar Temple, Bhide Bridge, and Shivane Bridge. These locations have been categorised as high-risk zones due to their proximity to the riverbed and their susceptibility to flooding, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall and dam water release. The city has been experiencing relentless rainfall, exacerbating the potential for rivers to swell beyond their banks. With the catchment areas of dams supplying water to Pune also receiving substantial precipitation, the risk of sudden water release has heightened, increasing the chances of rapid flooding in low-lying areas. This unpredictable nature of water management, compounded by natural factors, has led to several vehicles being damaged or completely submerged in recent days. The PMC’s directive is not limited to automobiles. Citizens are also advised against tying livestock such as buffaloes and cows in these flood-prone areas. The corporation emphasised the need for public cooperation to prevent avoidable losses and ensure safety during the ongoing monsoon season.
Despite previous advisories and visible signs of danger, several residents have continued to park their vehicles close to riverbeds. This disregard for warnings has led to avoidable damage, as was evident in the recent submersion of cars and two-wheelers following unexpected water releases from upstream dams. The PMC’s latest warning underscores the urgency of adhering to safety measures to protect property and lives. Officials from the PMC have highlighted that these warnings are part of a broader initiative to enhance urban resilience against natural calamities, particularly in monsoon-prone regions like Pune. The corporation has also been working closely with the water resources department to monitor dam levels and forecast potential flood events, aiming to provide timely information to the public.
In addition to the current warning, the PMC is exploring long-term solutions to manage flood risks more effectively. These include strengthening the city’s drainage infrastructure and implementing better urban planning strategies that account for natural water flows and potential flood zones. The aim is to create a more robust framework that minimises risks and enhances public safety. As Pune continues to navigate the challenges posed by heavy rainfall and flood risks, the PMC’s proactive approach in identifying and warning about vulnerable areas serves as a critical measure in safeguarding the city’s residents and their assets. Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to the PMC’s advisories to mitigate the adverse impacts of the monsoon season.
