Pune: The residents of Old Sangvi are once again facing the threat of flooding due to the presence of the Pavana and Mula rivers on both sides.
The recent heavy rains have raised fears of floods reminiscent of those in 2005 and 2019. Areas like Madhuban, Mula Nagar slum, Priyadarshini Nagar, and Sangam Nagar have been affected, with water entering homes.
Continuous water release from the Mulshi and Pavana dams has led to the relocation of residents from Madhuban and Mula Nagar slum to a shelter center at Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar School.
The ongoing rains in the dam regions and across Maharashtra have heightened the concerns of Dapodi and Old Sangvi residents. The incessant downpour has raised the water levels of the rivers in the Sangvi area, prompting the Municipal Corporation to issue warnings and conduct patrols in sensitive riverbank areas.
Emergency teams, including the fire brigade, patrolled these areas on Saturday night to ensure residents' safety. Instructions were broadcasted via loudspeakers, advising residents to stay prepared.
The fear of floods kept the riverside residents of Old Sangvi awake all night, with many seeking refuge with relatives, while others from Mula Nagar were moved to the shelter center.
On Sunday (August 4) morning, PCMC Commissioner Shekhar Singh, along with other municipal officials, reviewed the situation in Old Sangvi. In 2019, similar floods heavily impacted areas like Madhuban Society, Mula Nagar slum, Pawananagar Ghat, Priyadarshini Nagar, Shitole Nagar, Shivanjali Corner, Mamta Nagar, Sangam Nagar, Datt Ashram, and Indraprastha Society in New Sangvi.
Affected Areas: Riverside locations, including the crematorium, Vetal Maharaj Garden, Dashakriya Vidhi Ghat, and the road from Sai Chowk to Maheshwari Chowk in Sangvi and Dapodi, are currently impacted by floods.
Umesh Dhakane, Regional Officer stated, "The Municipal Corporation has relocated riverside residents, providing food and shelter. Commissioner Shekhar Singh is personally overseeing the situation, ensuring all systems are on alert. Residents are advised to relocate to the designated shelter centers without taking any risks."