Pune Floods: Army Deploys for Evacuations

The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has declared a ‘Red Alert’ for Pune district, anticipating extremely heavy rainfall in the ghat areas. The catchment regions of key dams, including Khadakwasla, Pavana, Mulshi, and Chasakman, are currently experiencing significant rainfall, resulting in full-capacity reservoirs and necessitating large-scale water discharge. Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has directed local officials to prioritize the safety of residents in flood-prone and low-lying areas across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. As of Saturday morning, the Mulshi Dam's water level reached 606.60 meters, with a storage capacity of 547.014 MCM, indicating a 96% fill. Authorities are urging residents living near riverbanks to refrain from entering the water and to relocate their belongings and livestock from vulnerable areas. The potential for increased water discharge from the dams remains a concern, prompting officials to advise caution for those in flood-affected regions. Deputy Chief Minister Pawar has convened with local officials to assess the situation and has highlighted the importance of contacting the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) for additional assistance if required. Residents in at-risk areas are encouraged to seek shelter in safer locations, with local administrations tasked to provide necessary support and facilitate safe shelters for those impacted. In response to the flooding, army personnel have been deployed to assist in inundated neighborhoods, particularly in Dwarka Society on Sinhgad Road, following significant water release from the Khadakwasla dam. The recent heavy rains have already led to the marooning of several residential areas along the Mutha River.