Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has proposed a ₹300 crore rehabilitation project for over 1,300 flats and approximately 70 shops situated within the blue flood line along the Mutha River near Sinhagad Road.
The project aims to relocate affected residents and businesses to safer municipal land nearby, with assistance from the Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA). The plan awaits approval from the state government before implementation, PMC officials said.
Flooding Risks and Challenges
Every monsoon, areas like Hingne and Vitthalwadi along Sinhagad Road face severe flooding when water is released from the Khadakwasla Dam. Buildings in the blue flood line often experience submergence, with water levels rising up to several floors during heavy rainfall in the dam's catchment area.
While the administration can issue timely warnings during the daytime, nighttime water releases pose challenges for evacuation, increasing the risk to lives and property. During the recent monsoon, night-time water releases led to flooding up to the first floors of several buildings, sparking public criticism of the authorities’ preparedness.
State Directive and Rehabilitation Plan
In response to these challenges, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde instructed the PMC to create a comprehensive rehabilitation plan for those residing in the flood-affected areas. The PMC's report includes both short-term and long-term measures.
Under the long-term measures, the plan suggests relocating over 1,300 residential flats, standalone homes, and 70 commercial establishments to safer municipal land nearby. The rehabilitation will be executed through MHADA, with additional Floor Space Index (FSI) provided under the new development regulations to accommodate the project.
The estimated cost of the project is ₹300 crore, which includes construction and resettlement expenses. The PMC has submitted the plan to the state government, and further actions will be based on its approval.
