Pune: PMC Sets June 7 Deadline to Fix 116 Flood-Prone Spots, Citizens Question Effectiveness
Pune, 12th April 2025: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has announced a June 7 deadline to address 116 locations across the city that are prone to flash flooding. However, citizens and civic activists remain skeptical, describing the move as routine and demanding long-term, structural solutions.
The civic body plans to spend nearly ₹150 crore on pre-monsoon preparedness, which includes desilting of nullahs, road repairs, drainage cleaning, and upkeep of civic infrastructure. Yet, many residents argue that these efforts often fall short during the monsoon months.
The list of vulnerable areas, compiled after the 2019 Ambil Odha flooding, includes Sahakarnagar, Hadapsar, Market Yard, Sinhagad Road, NIBM Road, BT Kawade Road, Katraj, Deccan, and Karvenagar. These spots were identified based on recurring waterlogging incidents and past flooding records.
Activists have also flagged concerns over the quality of work and alleged corruption in the tendering process. Vijay Kumbhar, founder of Surajya Sangharsha Samiti, a citizens’ group, claimed, “There seems to be a nexus between civic officials, politicians, and contractors. Many tenders are cleared at significantly lower rates, raising doubts over the quality and intent of the work.”
According to PMC data, over 382 culverts, 48,000 drainage chambers, and 184 kilometers of stormwater drains need to be cleaned annually to prevent flooding. Delays or negligence in this process often result in clogged drains and waterlogged streets.
Responding to concerns, Aniruddha Pawaskar, head of PMC’s road department, said, “We’ve improved coordination between agencies involved in digging and road work. Meetings with the traffic police and other departments are being held to prevent overlapping efforts. The goal is to minimize disruption and maintain road quality.”
Despite such assurances, many Punekars believe the real test will come when the monsoon hits. Activists have urged PMC to adopt data-driven planning, transparent tendering, and stricter monitoring to ensure lasting solutions to the city’s annual flood woes.
