Pune: Experts Warn City Faces Five More Years of Flooded Roads Without Urgent Action

Pune News, June 15, 2025: Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad residents may have to endure severe waterlogging for the next five years unless immediate corrective measures are taken, experts warn. Climate variability and rapid urbanization have turned these areas into flood-prone zones during rains, with blocked drains, rampant concretization, and vanishing natural water channels exacerbating the crisis.

Root Causes of Waterlogging

Studies reveal that 30%-40% of rainwater once percolated naturally into the ground, reducing surface runoff. However, unsegregated waste clogging sewage lines, illegal construction on natural streams, and unchecked concretization have disrupted this critical recharge process. As a result, even moderate rainfall now leads to excessive water flow on roads.

Worst-Affected Areas

Over the past few weeks, key locations like Kothrud, Shivajinagar, Warje, Narhe, Hadapsar, and Wagholi—along with parts of PCMC and Hinjawadi—have faced severe flooding. On June 13 alone, Pune recorded 63mm of rain, following 26mm the previous day.

“On Friday evening, the road in front of Abhimanshri Society turned into a water stream. It was nearly impossible to walk or even drive through it,” said Mohini Ingle, a Baner resident.

Systemic Failures and Lack of Coordination

Shailaja Deshpande, founder-director of Living River Foundation, highlighted the encroachment and diversion of natural watersheds. “The dam discharge hasn’t even started, yet many areas are flooded. Streams and tributaries have been buried or narrowed, worsening the flooding. There’s no coordination between stormwater and drainage systems,” she said.

Call for Structural Overhaul

Urban geomorphologist Shrikant Gabale emphasized the need to legally demarcate and preserve natural streams. “Many streams are buried under concrete or drastically reduced in width. This is unsustainable. They must be included in city development plans,” he urged.

PMC’s Response

Omprakash Diwate, Additional Commissioner of Pune Municipal Corporation, stated that while June 13’s rains caused localized flooding, zonal teams are working to clear drains swiftly. “Last year, we identified 201 chronic waterlogging spots and resolved most. Remaining sites are under inspection for corrective measures,” he said.

However, urban planners warn that without major interventions, flooding risks will persist for at least five more years.