CCTV Watch on Rivers: Pune Municipal Corporation Steps up Flood Preparedness
Pune, 1st April 2026: In a bid to increase its flood preparedness ahead of the monsoon, the municipal corporation has begun setting up a citywide network of CCTV cameras along riverbeds to enable continuous monitoring and quicker emergency response.
The project, modelled on a similar system implemented in Mumbai, comes amid growing concerns over illegal dumping and encroachments in riverbed areas, as well as the need for timely alerts during rising water levels. Civic officials said the surveillance system will aid in tracking water flow following dam releases and help authorities respond more effectively to potential flood situations.
The move gains significance in light of repeated instances of debris being dumped into riverbeds. In one such case near Tilak Bridge, the civic body had imposed a penalty of Rs 10 lakh on those responsible. Despite such action, violations have continued to surface, prompting the need for tighter monitoring.
Under the plan, CCTV cameras will be installed at 168 locations along river stretches across the city. At present, 44 sites have been covered, while work is ongoing at 14 additional locations. Officials said the cameras will be powered through a combination of solar energy and conventional electricity to ensure uninterrupted functioning.
Flooding remains a recurring concern in Pune, particularly along the Mula-Mutha river and adjoining streams. Sudden releases of water from dams such as Khadakwasla, Panshet, Varasgaon and Temghar have often led to inundation in low-lying areas, especially along Sinhagad Road.
Last year, several neighbourhoods, including Ektanagari, reported water entering homes, with delays in warning systems exacerbating the damage. In response, the civic body is working to integrate CCTV surveillance with rain gauges and a centralised control room to strengthen its early warning mechanism.
