Pune: Heavy Inflows Push Pavana Dam to 99%; PCMC on High Alert as Water Release Set to Increase

Pimpri Chinchwad, 31st July 2026: With the Pavana Dam reaching 99 per cent of its storage capacity and heavy rainfall continuing across its catchment area and the Western Ghats, the Water Resources Department has announced that the discharge into the Pavana River will be increased.

In view of the rising water levels, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has urged residents living along the riverbanks to remain alert and take necessary precautions.

At present, around 7,880 cusecs of water is being released from the dam. To regulate the reservoir level, the discharge will be increased to 9,200 cusecs. Depending on the intensity of rainfall and the inflow into the reservoir, the release may be raised in phases to as much as 15,000 cusecs, officials said.

The civic body warned that continuous rainfall could lead to a sudden rise in the water levels of rivers, streams and nullahs, increasing the risk of flooding in low-lying areas. Residents have been advised to avoid visiting the riverbed or its banks and immediately shift agricultural equipment, irrigation pumps, livestock and other belongings from the riverbed to safer locations.

Keeping in view the possibility of an emergency, all PCMC ward offices, the Disaster Management Department, Fire Brigade, Health Department and other concerned agencies have been placed on alert. The civic administration said public announcements will be made through loudspeakers in vulnerable areas to keep residents informed. Adequate manpower, vehicles and relief shelters have also been kept ready to facilitate evacuation if required.

The Fire Department has been instructed to remain fully equipped for immediate rescue operations, while the police, local authorities and other departments have been directed to maintain close coordination and continuously monitor the situation.

The municipal corporation also appealed to citizens not to believe rumours and to strictly follow official advisories issued by the Water Resources Department, district administration and PCMC. Residents have been asked to immediately contact the authorities in the event of any emergency.

“Pavana Dam reaching full capacity is reassuring for the city’s water security. However, with persistent rainfall over the ghats, riverbanks and across the city, the water level in the river is likely to rise. Residents living along the riverbanks and in low-lying areas must remain vigilant, avoid entering the riverbed and follow official instructions. The municipal corporation is implementing all necessary measures with public safety as its highest priority,” said Mayor Ravi Landge.

Municipal Commissioner Dr Vijay Suryawanshi said the entire civic machinery has been put on alert following the decision to increase the dam discharge. “Public warning systems are operational in vulnerable areas, and all arrangements, including manpower, vehicles and relief shelters, have been made for evacuation if necessary. All regional offices, the Disaster Management Department, Fire Brigade, Health Department and other departments have been instructed to work in close coordination with the police and local authorities. Citizens should cooperate with the administration and prioritise their safety by following official advisories,” he said.