Pune: The release of water from Khadakwasla Dam into the Mutha River on Saturday afternoon, following heavy rainfall in the catchment area, left around 70 to 80 four-wheelers stranded between Bhide Bridge and Tilak Bridge.

Many citizens had parked their vehicles in the riverbed and went shopping, unaware of the impending water release. The vehicles became trapped as the water level rose, prompting a swift response from local police and citizens.

The police began issuing warnings to remove vehicles from the riverbed starting at 3 PM. However, many vehicle owners were not present, as they had left the area for other tasks.

The police, using the traffic department's app to locate the vehicle owners' contact numbers, urged them to retrieve their cars. While some managed to reach the riverbed in time, others had to leave their vehicles behind due to the rapidly rising water.

Local citizens, along with the police, assisted stranded drivers by helping push their vehicles out of the water. Despite their efforts, some vehicles had to be abandoned as the water levels continued to increase.

Drum Troupes Hit by Floodwaters Again

In a repeat of last month’s events, several drum troupes practicing in the riverbed saw their tents and musical equipment washed away by the floodwaters.

Many of these troupes had only recently resumed their practice in makeshift tents after the last flood. The latest incident has caused further damage to their equipment, with mud and debris now covering their practice areas.