Pune is grappling with a growing threat as 201 locations across the city have been identified as dangerously prone to flooding during the monsoon season. Experts attribute this alarming situation to rapid urbanization, landscape alterations, and inadequate stormwater management that have severely compromised the city's natural drainage systems.
Urban geomorphologist Shrikant Gabale, who has studied Pune's topography for over a decade, highlights that the increase in hard surface concreting, closure of natural streams, and improper stormwater drainage have created more than 170 flood-prone zones within the city limits. These areas include newly constructed roads, residential societies, and sites near riverbanks and metro pillars, where elevation and water flow considerations were overlooked during construction.
Pune’s unique geography, surrounded by hills and intersected by multiple streams, has been heavily impacted by encroachments and blocked waterways. Approximately 95% of rainwater now runs off directly into rivers instead of recharging underground aquifers, exacerbating flood risks. The situation worsens near 55 confluence points of the Mutha River and in low-lying neighborhoods where violations of flood lines and construction on riverbeds have further restricted water flow.
The recent riverfront development project at Bund Garden has also contributed to increased water levels during heavy rains. For instance, areas like Ektanagari, which remained safe during past high water discharges, faced flooding at much lower water volumes in recent years due to these infrastructural changes.
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has identified 41 critical spots along riverbeds and low-lying areas where flooding is frequent and severe. Citizens have been warned not to park vehicles or tether livestock in these vulnerable zones to prevent losses during sudden inundations. The PMC has also set up emergency shelters and a task force to assist affected residents, having evacuated thousands during recent floods.
Local authorities and experts emphasize the urgent need for sustainable urban planning, strict enforcement of flood line regulations, and restoration of natural water channels to mitigate future flood disasters. They advocate for reopening choked groundwater springs to manage runoff better and call for continuous monitoring of dam releases downstream to prevent sudden surges.