Pune: Civic Body Intensifies Disaster Control Measures as 73 New Flood-Prone Spots Identified
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has ramped up flood control measures after identifying 73 new flood-prone spots in the city in June 2025 alone. This alarming rise in vulnerable areas has prompted the civic body to seek additional funding and draft a ₹250 crore detailed project report to mitigate risks.
Pune is among only seven cities in India to receive central government funds under the National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP). The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has allocated ₹50 crore over five years to bolster flood resilience.
Proactive Measures by PMC
To combat the escalating threat, the PMC has:
- Established a dedicated disaster management cell with a modern control room.
- Integrated all civic departments for coordinated disaster preparedness.
- Uploaded a monsoon flood control plan on the PMC website, detailing officer responsibilities.
- Collaborated with the fire brigade to analyze past emergency calls and identify weak spots.
Officials of PMC’s Disaster Management Department, emphasized the civic body’s proactive stance: “We are identifying emerging flood-prone areas and taking corrective measures. Our flood control plan is publicly available, ensuring transparency.”
Changing Flood Patterns
Previously, flooding occurred only due to excess dam water release. Now, even moderate rainfall (35-40 mm) causes knee-deep waterlogging in several localities—many of which were previously considered safe. Experts attribute this to:
- Clogged nullahs and outdated drainage systems.
- Unplanned urbanization, narrowing natural drainage channels.
- Lack of stormwater infrastructure alongside metro and road projects.
Citizens and Activists Raise Concerns
Residents of Pune highlighted the dangers: “New waterlogging spots endanger mobility, health, and emergency access. Unchecked construction and poor drainage maintenance are to blame.”
Another one criticized authorities: “Roads and metros are built, but stormwater drains are ignored. Engineers must act before more areas flood.”
