The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has floated a tender for drain cleaning right in the middle of the monsoon season. The decision has sparked widespread criticism and renewed scrutiny of the city’s civic planning, with many questioning the timing and effectiveness of such a late initiative.
Drain cleaning is a critical pre-monsoon activity in any urban center, designed to prevent waterlogging, flooding, and public health hazards. Traditionally, these tenders are issued and work is completed before the onset of heavy rains. However, this year, the PMC’s tender process has come weeks after the monsoon has already begun pounding Pune.
According to the official notice released this week, the tender invites bids for the cleaning and desilting of major nullahs and stormwater drains across the city. The move comes as several areas, including Kothrud, Hadapsar, and Sinhagad Road, have already reported severe waterlogging and traffic disruptions due to choked drains.
The immediate fallout has been felt across the city. With drains already clogged, several low-lying areas have experienced:
Severe waterlogging and flooded streets
Disrupted traffic and delayed public transport
Increased risk of waterborne diseases due to stagnant water
Property damage in residential and commercial areas
Local businesses have also suffered, with shopkeepers in affected localities reporting loss of sales and damage to goods.
In response to mounting criticism, PMC officials have stated that the tender was delayed due to “unforeseen administrative reasons” and assured that cleaning work will be expedited. “We are committed to minimizing inconvenience and will deploy emergency teams to the worst-hit areas,” a PMC spokesperson said.
However, many citizens remain skeptical, pointing out that similar assurances have been made in previous years with little improvement on the ground.
