Severe Rainfall Hits Pune, Causes Disruptions and Evacuations

Pune is currently facing severe rainfall that has led to serious disruptions across the city and surrounding areas. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings of very heavy rain, with the possibility of extreme rainfall in isolated areas, particularly in regions like Raigad and Ratnagiri.

Reports indicate that the heavy rains have already resulted in the loss of at least five lives in Pune. Sadly, many others are feared trapped under debris from landslides in areas like Lavasa, while two individuals were reported missing and feared drowned in Katraj and Nanayan Peth.

The situation has prompted school closures across Pune, and local authorities have advised citizens to steer clear of low-lying areas, particularly alongside the banks of the Pavana and Mula rivers. Evacuations are taking place in these regions, with over 3,000 people moved to temporary shelters.

In terms of water management, the Khadakwasla Dam is currently at full capacity, and the irrigation department has issued an advisory warning residents to avoid riverbeds, as water levels rise significantly.

Pune’s historical rainfall record was nearly reached recently, with the city reporting 114.1 mm of rain in just 24 hours, marking one of the highest recorded rainfall events in July. With more rain on the horizon through the weekend, residents are advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.

In response to the emergency, Ajit Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister, has ordered the deployment of the Army and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) teams to assist in rescue operations in the hardest-hit areas like Ekta Nagar on Sinhagad Road.

The impact of the heavy rain was not limited to just human casualties. Agricultural damage has been reported across 68,457 hectares of farmland, with crops such as soybeans, cotton, and rice suffering significant losses. This is anticipated to influence the supply chain of vegetables in Pune’s wholesale markets.

As the rains continue, the authorities remain on high alert, working diligently to manage the situation as it develops.