Pune, 8th July 2025: In response to increasing criticism over inadequate monsoon preparedness, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has announced the installation of 500 smart poles across the city, beginning with 39 flood-prone areas. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster disaster management infrastructure and ensure real-time emergency response during natural calamities, especially floods.
These smart poles will be equipped with high-tech features such as AI-enabled CCTV cameras, drone cameras, sirens, and digital display boards. All devices will be integrated with PMC’s disaster management cell, allowing authorities to monitor situations in real time and alert citizens quickly. The primary objective is to issue warnings during flood-like conditions, though the system will also assist in fire incidents and other natural disasters.
The implementation of the project will begin next week, following consultations with all 15 regional ward offices to identify and prioritize vulnerable zones. Deputy Commissioner of Disaster Management Sandeep Khalate confirmed that 500 AI-powered CCTV cameras will also be deployed across Pune to increase citywide surveillance.
He added that after the initial phase is completed in flood-prone areas, the network will gradually expand to other locations as per ongoing survey assessments.
To support this effort, PMC has already installed automatic rain gauges at the Khadakwasla dam complex, which will provide live rainfall data to assess flood risks and automatically activate smart pole sirens if necessary. These tools will help the authorities take proactive measures and enhance forecasting accuracy during heavy rainfall events.
Additionally, 24×7 control rooms have been set up at the PMC headquarters and its 15 zonal offices, each staffed by trained personnel and engineers to respond to emergencies without delay. With this integrated system, PMC hopes to significantly reduce flood damage, improve public safety, and demonstrate stronger disaster preparedness during the monsoon and beyond.
