Pune, 20 June 2025: Continuous heavy rain from Wednesday midnight to Thursday afternoon brought Pune city to a standstill. Major areas including Kothrud, Karvenagar, Warje, Bavdhan, Sinhagad Road, Aundh, Bopodi, Hadapsar, Yerawada, Katraj, Kondhwa, Baner and Balewadi faced severe waterlogging.

Roads turned into streams, making it extremely difficult for motorists and residents to commute. Traffic jams were reported in several parts of the city as vehicles struggled through submerged roads and potholes.

The Pune Municipal Corporation’s Disaster Management Cell received around 90 complaints of waterlogging throughout the day. Regional teams along with road and sewage department workers were deployed immediately to drain out the water.

The lids of clogged chambers were opened at various locations to allow the water to flow away quickly. However, despite these efforts, many people were stuck in long traffic jams during their morning commute.

"We sent help to all places where water had entered houses and cleared it within 20 minutes. People living near riverbanks have also been alerted as water is being released from the Khadakwasla dam," said Ganesh Sonune, Assistant Commissioner, Disaster Management Department. Around 15 houses near Khadakwasla reported water entering their premises due to heavy rainfall and dam water release.

In low-lying areas like Dhaari Narhe, Ambegaon, Navale Bridge area and parts of the National Highway, heavy rainwater overflowed onto the roads, causing severe traffic congestion.

A chamber collapse on Bhau Patil Road in Bopodi added to the problem, while a tree fell near Nilayam Cinema, blocking water flow and further complicating the situation. Rainwater also flooded the canal road from Athawale Chowk to Prabhat Road, affecting vehicle movement.

Officials assured that preventive measures are being taken to avoid repeat incidents, especially in vulnerable spots. “Last year, floodwater had entered Ektanagari. This year, we have deployed a dedicated team for this area to manage any emergency after the release of water from Khadakwasla dam,” said Sandeep Khalate, Deputy Commissioner, Disaster Management Department.

Citizens have been urged to stay alert, follow updates, and avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall.