Pune: PMC Plans Riverfront Development, Boundary Walls to Prevent Future Floods

Pune, 10th December 2024: After record rainfall in the Khadakwasla Dam catchment area earlier this year, which led to significant water discharge and flooding in parts of Pune, the Municipal Corporation has initiated steps to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Municipal Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale has instructed the civic administration to draft a comprehensive plan within eight days, comprising both short-term and long-term flood mitigation measures.

This decision follows a report submitted by a committee tasked with investigating the July flooding, which severely affected areas such as Ekta Nagri on Sinhagad Road, Deccan, and Patil Estate. A meeting was convened on Tuesday, where Dr. Bhosale emphasized the urgency of implementing immediate measures while also planning sustainable solutions. The meeting was attended by Additional Municipal Commissioner Prithviraj B.P., City Engineer Prashant Waghmare, officials from the Disaster Management Department, and representatives from the Irrigation Department.

The Municipal Commissioner has directed the administration to commence short-term measures without delay. These include:
Removal of encroachments in riverbeds.
Clearing obstacles that disrupt the natural flow of water.
Dismantling unnecessary dams or barriers.
Mobilizing regional offices and the encroachment department for swift action.
These actions aim to ensure smoother water flow in the Mutha River, reducing the risk of future flooding.

To address areas like Ekta Nagri, Vitthalwadi, and Nimbajnagar on Sinhagad Road—regions that suffered extensive damage—a permanent flood prevention strategy is under consideration. Proposals discussed in the meeting include:
Implementation of a riverfront development project.
Cluster development to reorganize vulnerable zones.
Construction of boundary walls to protect at-risk areas.
The aim is to adopt solutions that not only mitigate flooding but also enhance convenience and safety for residents.

The civic administration has been tasked with evaluating these options and preparing a detailed, citizen-centric long-term plan to be executed before the next monsoon season.

Dr. Bhosale stated, “The administration must act swiftly to implement immediate measures while also developing robust long-term strategies to ensure Pune remains resilient against extreme weather events.”