Waterlogging to End Within an Hour? PMC Sets Ambitious Monsoon Target for Pune
Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Pune, 10th June 2026: In a significant push to reduce urban flooding this monsoon, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is implementing a scientific, technology-driven strategy that includes detailed topographic mapping and predictive modelling to identify potential waterlogging hotspots. The initiative marks a major shift in the city’s approach to flood management.
PMC Additional Commissioner Prajit Nair said the civic administration is focused on improving accountability and efficiency through data-backed planning.
“We are moving towards a more scientific and data-driven approach to pre-monsoon preparedness. For the first time, we are leveraging advanced surveys and mapping techniques that help us understand exactly where water is likely to accumulate based on rainfall intensity. This enables better planning of culverts, drainage lines, and other critical infrastructure,” Nair told Punekar News.
To strengthen flood mitigation efforts, PMC has engaged expert agencies to prepare comprehensive Drainage Master Plans, particularly for newly merged areas. Consultants have conducted detailed topographic surveys, population and sewage studies, and mapping of existing drainage infrastructure.
The exercise includes Digital Elevation Model (DEM)-based analysis, allowing engineers to simulate water flow patterns and identify locations vulnerable to flooding during heavy rainfall.
Key Highlights of PMC’s Monsoon Preparedness
Advanced Infrastructure Mapping
PMC officials now have precise digital mapping of culverts, stormwater drains, and nullahs across the city. The enhanced visibility is expected to improve the effectiveness of desilting operations, maintenance planning, and emergency response.
Enhanced Pumping Capacity
To address waterlogging more effectively, PMC has deployed 30 additional dewatering pumps. Around 75 pumps are already operational across the city, with more being positioned at identified critical locations.
Pre-Monsoon Cleaning Near Completion
According to recent reviews, pre-monsoon drain cleaning has reached approximately 85% completion, up from 72% earlier. Work on stormwater chambers, nullahs, and culverts has also crossed the 84-90% completion range in various categories. PMC aims to complete the remaining work before the onset of heavy rainfall.
Robotic Cleaning and Monitoring
For the first time, robotic systems are being used to clean hard-to-reach underground drains and culverts. The civic body is also conducting round-the-clock monitoring of key dams, including Khadakwasla and Panshet, while intensifying inspections of more than 2,000 drainage chambers using technology-based tools.
Flood Mitigation Infrastructure
PMC has secured ₹200 crore for the construction of protective walls along flood-prone river stretches. The project is being undertaken in response to waterlogging and flooding incidents witnessed during previous monsoons.
Nair has also conducted surprise inspections and review meetings across the city. During these inspections, show-cause notices were issued in cases where works were reported as completed but were found lacking on the ground.
“Such negligence will not be tolerated. Officials have been directed to expedite all pending works. Waterlogging should not persist for more than one hour in any part of the city,” Nair said.
PMC’s ongoing pre-monsoon reviews continue to focus on drain desilting, culvert repairs, and strengthening stormwater infrastructure. The civic body aims to ensure rapid drainage of accumulated rainwater through improved coordination, technology adoption, and timely intervention.
The corporation is also planning to deploy robotic systems for auditing stormwater drain cleaning from mid-June, following the successful pilot implementation for drainage chamber inspections.
This year’s preparations assume greater significance in light of the city’s expanding limits, including newly merged villages, and recurring flooding incidents in recent years. While officials report substantial progress, PMC has emphasized strict ground-level verification and accountability to ensure Pune remains “Rain Ready” during the 2026 monsoon season.
