Rain Havoc in Maharashtra: Army Deployed in Pune, Mumbai on Red Alert Amid Torrential Downpours

Severe Flooding in Pune and Kolhapur

Heavy and continuous rainfall has caused severe flooding in Pune and Kolhapur, disrupting daily life and leading to the closure of schools. Low-lying areas in Pune, particularly Pimpri-Chinchwad, are inundated, prompting the deployment of army personnel to assist with evacuation and relief efforts. Around 400 people have been evacuated so far, with the army, NDRF, fire brigade, and disaster management teams actively involved in rescue operations.

Tragic Deaths and Public Safety Concerns

In Pune, four people have died in rain-related incidents. Three men were electrocuted while moving their handcart through a flooded street in the Deccan area, and another person died in a landslide in the Tahmini Ghat region. The district administration is working to clear debris and reopen roads. Meanwhile, Mumbai has experienced its second-wettest July on record, with over 150 cm of rainfall, leading to severe waterlogging and flight disruptions.

Government and Airline Responses

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar are closely monitoring the situation. Shinde has indicated that airlifting may be necessary if conditions worsen. Several airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, have issued advisories about flight delays and cancellations due to the heavy rains. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has urged residents to stay indoors and declared holidays for schools and colleges in Mumbai and neighboring districts due to the red alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD).

Dam Water Release and River Levels

In Pune, water is being released from the Khadakwasla dam at a rate of 9,400 cusecs following heavy rainfall in the catchment areas. Residents in low-lying areas have been cautioned to remain alert. In Kolhapur, the Panchganga River is flowing just below the danger mark, with the local administration monitoring the situation closely and issuing alerts to residents.

Ongoing Relief Efforts

Relief operations continue across the affected areas, with the government and various agencies working to mitigate the impact of the floods. The IMD has forecasted continued heavy rains in the coming days, keeping Maharashtra on high alert.