The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded over 60 mm of rain in several parts of Pune within just a few hours. The heaviest showers were reported in areas such as Shivajinagar, Kothrud, Hadapsar, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and Baner. Suburbs like Aundh, Wakad, and Hinjewadi also faced relentless rain, resulting in waterlogged streets and overflowing drains.
Residents reported that the rain started in the early afternoon and intensified by evening, causing flash floods in low-lying areas. Social media was flooded with images and videos of submerged roads, stranded vehicles, and pedestrians wading through knee-deep water.
Major roads including JM Road, FC Road, and the Pune-Mumbai Highway experienced severe traffic jams as vehicles moved at a snail’s pace due to flooding and poor visibility. Public transport services were delayed, and several PMPML buses had to alter their routes or halt service temporarily.
Numerous residential colonies and commercial complexes reported water entering basements and ground floors. In some areas, power outages occurred as a precautionary measure to avoid electrical hazards. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) received hundreds of complaints regarding blocked drains and waterlogging.
Civic authorities, including the fire brigade and disaster management teams, were deployed to clear waterlogged roads and assist stranded residents. Pumps were used to drain excess water from critical junctions, and traffic police were stationed at major intersections to manage the chaos.
Citizens expressed frustration over the city’s inadequate drainage infrastructure and the recurring issue of waterlogging during heavy rains. Many took to social media to share their experiences and call for urgent action from civic authorities. Parents were particularly concerned for school-going children, as several schools dismissed classes early to ensure student safety.
The IMD has forecast continued moderate to heavy rainfall in Pune and surrounding areas for the next 24 hours. Residents are advised to:
Avoid venturing out unless necessary, especially in low-lying or flood-prone areas.
Stay updated via official weather bulletins and local news.
Exercise caution while driving and avoid waterlogged roads.
Keep emergency contact numbers handy.
The PMC has assured citizens that all possible measures are being taken to restore normalcy, including deploying additional pumps, clearing blocked drains, and increasing the presence of emergency teams. The incident has reignited debates about Pune’s urban planning and the urgent need for sustainable drainage solutions as the city faces more frequent extreme weather events.
