Pimpri-Chinchwad, Maharashtra – Residents living along the banks of the Pavana and Indrayani rivers in Pimpri-Chinchwad have been urged to remain vigilant as water levels in these rivers have risen due to continuous rainfall and increased water discharge from dams. The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) issued an alert following information from the irrigation department regarding the discharge of water from Pavana Dam.
The Pavana Dam, a crucial water source for the industrial city, has seen its storage reach approximately 95% of capacity due to heavy rains in its catchment area. As a precautionary measure, the irrigation department has begun releasing water into the Pavana River. Reports indicate an initial discharge of around 800 cusecs from the dam’s hydroelectric power house, with plans to potentially increase this to 5,000 cusecs in phases, depending on rainfall and inflow rates.
The PCMC has advised citizens residing in low-lying areas and along the riverbanks to take extra precautions. Residents have been urged to relocate belongings, including farm equipment, vehicles, and livestock, to safer ground and to avoid venturing near the riverbed. Authorities have also emphasized the importance of heeding all instructions issued by the administration to prevent potential emergencies.
The increased water discharge and rising river levels are a consequence of persistent rainfall in the Pune district, where the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for heavy precipitation. This has led to significant water logging in various parts of Pimpri-Chinchwad and surrounding areas, impacting commuting and necessitating evacuations.
In response to the escalating situation, the PCMC has activated its disaster management machinery. Rescue teams equipped with necessary tools are on standby, and a 24×7 disaster control room has been established to provide timely assistance. Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Singh has instructed emergency response teams to be prepared for immediate action and has appealed to citizens to remain cautious and cooperate with evacuation efforts if necessary. Updates on rainfall, dam water discharge, and safety advisories are being disseminated through the PCMC’s official social media platforms.
This situation highlights the vulnerability of riverside communities to monsoon-related flooding. In recent years, similar alerts and evacuations have been issued in Pimpri-Chinchwad due to heavy rainfall and dam discharge, underscoring the ongoing challenges posed by water management and flood preparedness in the region. The municipal administration is closely monitoring the water levels and rainfall predictions to manage the situation effectively and ensure the safety of its residents.
The Chenab Times News Desk