Pune: Khadakwasla water release into Mutha river is set to be increased to 45705 cusecs at 5pm on Sunday (August 4).
Ajit Pawar has instructed the Water Resources Department to reduce the dam's water to 65% capacity, cautioning that continued rain could refill the dam overnight. Hence, water levels of Mutha river and Mula river across the river bank in Pune are set to rise further.
Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) Commissioner Dr. Rajendra Bhosale is also visiting and counselling residents to vacate their house in vulnerable areas of flooding.
With continuous heavy rainfall over the past two days causing traffic congestion and waterlogging, the dam areas have also seen a significant increase in water inflow. To manage this, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has ordered that Khadakwasla Dam be lowered to 65% capacity within the day.
This means that a substantial amount of water will be released from the dam into the river throughout the day.
Pune District Collector Suhas Divase reported a red alert for the ghats and noted that residents from Yerawada, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and various parts of Pune have been relocated. As of 10:30 AM, 35,000 cusecs of water are being released from Khadakwasla Dam.
Pune Municipal Commissioner Rajendra Bhosale pointed out that waterlogging is occurring again in Ekta Nagari and requested that the dam be lowered as soon as possible.
He also mentioned they are investigating if the riverfront project is contributing to the issues. Complaints from residents will be re-evaluated.
The Indian Meteorological Department has warned of heavy rain in Pune and the surrounding district today. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has directed the Pune Municipal Commissioner and District Collector to ensure the administration is prepared.
Residents in potential danger zones near rivers and dams should be moved to safety, with help from the NDRF, SDRF, and Army if needed. Arrangements for shelter, clothing, and food for relocated individuals should be made.
