Pune: On the second day of the flooding crisis, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) promptly mobilized to address the aftermath.
As the floodwaters receded, PMC officials began a series of critical tasks including providing food and water to affected residents, cleaning roads, removing sludge and mud, spraying disinfectants, and assessing the damage.
These efforts were carried out through various departments of the municipal corporation, with support from numerous NGOs and community groups.
Following widespread criticism of the municipal administration from flood-affected residents and elected representatives, the PMC swiftly moved to provide relief.
Since the waters started receding on Friday (July 26), the municipal administration has been actively engaged in relief operations across different flood-affected areas of the city.
Departments including Disaster Management, Solid Waste Management, Water Supply, and Road Maintenance, along with all regional office officials and staff, were involved in the cleanup efforts starting Friday morning.
Areas such as Ekta Nagar, Adarsh Nagar, Vitthalwadi, Pulachi Wadi, Patil Estate, Bopodi, Yerwada, Aundh, and Matoshri Rambai Ambedkar Road (Tadiwala Road) saw extensive work to clear mud and sludge from main roads, internal roads, markets, and public places.
To prevent disease outbreaks from the foul-smelling and contaminated water, disinfectant spraying was conducted. Priority was given to the immediate removal of accumulated waste and sludge.
At several locations where water from drains had spilled onto roads, jetting machines were used to reduce water levels. The municipal administration worked in three shifts to ensure thorough cleaning and prevent any delays in relief efforts. Senior officials closely monitored the operations to address any issues promptly.
Several NGOs, Ganeshotsav committees, colleges, and social organizations offered their support for the cleanup efforts. Many students and young volunteers came forward to assist, collecting trash from streets and bridges and helping municipal staff with the cleanup.
The assessment of damages to homes, household goods, and vehicles began on Friday, with officials working to document the extent of the destruction in various areas.
"The municipal administration immediately stepped up to assist residents after the floods. We have undertaken various measures including cleanliness drives, disinfectant spraying, road cleaning, and providing food to the affected. Damage assessments are currently underway in different areas," said Ganesh Sonune, Disaster Management Officer, Pune Municipal Corporation.
