Pune: Residents Allege Drainage Neglect, Demand Accountability in NIBM Annexe–Mohammadwadi
Reported by Shoaib Tadvi
Mohammadwadi,10th June 2026: Serious concerns over deteriorating drainage infrastructure in NIBM Annexe–Mohammadwadi have been raised by residents and social activist Jaymala Dhankikar, who has written to the Chief Minister of Maharashtra and the Pune Municipal Commissioner demanding urgent intervention and accountability from the Drainage Department.
In her complaint, Dhankikar alleged that the area around Raheja Sterling and adjoining localities is facing recurring issues of clogged drains, overflowing chambers, stagnant wastewater, foul odour, and waterlogging. She claimed that despite repeated complaints from residents, the civic administration has failed to provide a permanent solution.
According to the complaint, rapid urban development in Mohammadwadi and NIBM Annexe has increased pressure on existing drainage infrastructure, while maintenance and upgrades have allegedly failed to keep pace with the area’s growth. Residents fear that the onset of the monsoon could further aggravate the situation, leading to flooding, mosquito breeding, traffic disruptions, and health hazards.
The activist has also lodged a separate complaint regarding the alleged discourteous behaviour of a deputy engineer from the Kondhwa-Katraj Ward Office. The letter states that several residents felt ignored and dissatisfied while seeking assistance for civic grievances.
Dhankikar has demanded an immediate inspection and technical audit of the drainage network, urgent desilting and cleaning operations, publication of drainage maintenance records for the past five years, and accountability for recurring drainage failures. She has further urged authorities to prepare a time-bound plan for strengthening drainage infrastructure before permitting further urban development in the area.
Jaymala Dhankikar, Social Activist, said:
“Residents of NIBM Annexe and Mohammadwadi have been raising drainage-related complaints for years, yet the situation remains unresolved. Choked drains, stagnant sewage and recurring waterlogging are serious public health concerns. The administration must ensure accountability and implement a permanent solution before the monsoon worsens the crisis.”
A resident of Raheja Sterling said:
“The drainage system near our society is in a deplorable condition. Foul-smelling stagnant water, overflowing chambers and garbage accumulation have become a regular sight. We fear that even moderate rainfall could lead to severe flooding and health risks for residents.”
Another resident of the locality added:
“Despite paying property taxes and repeatedly reporting the issue, residents have seen little improvement. The drainage infrastructure has failed to keep pace with rapid development in the area. We urge PMC to immediately inspect the network and undertake comprehensive repair and desilting work.”
Responding to the concerns, Suchita Pansare Assistant Municipal Commissioner of the Kondhwa-Undri Regional Office said that the matter would be examined and forwarded to the concerned engineering department for necessary action.
“We will look into the matter and advise the concerned engineer to undertake the required work,” Pansare said.
Residents have called for immediate action from the Pune Municipal Corporation, stating that civic infrastructure must be maintained proactively rather than after problems escalate. They have also sought greater transparency regarding drainage maintenance works, budgets, and future augmentation plans for the rapidly developing Mohammadwadi-NIBM corridor.
