Pune Allocates Rs200 Crore to Construct Flood-Preventing Walls

In a move to address Pune's recurring monsoon flooding, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has identified 88 locations along the city's nullahs (drainage channels) to construct retaining walls and strengthen culverts at a cost of Rs200 crore. The project, which is expected to commence within the next two months, is part of the civic body's efforts to prevent flooding in vulnerable areas.

The initiative traces back to proposals made after the 2019 floods, but progress has been slow, with only partial completion on some stretches. Funding constraints and technical issues, including the cancellation of a tendering process last year due to flaws and irregularities, have stalled further work. However, the PMC has now floated a consolidated tender valued at Rs166 crore to appoint an implementing agency, with the state government providing an initial installment of Rs29.8 crore.

Residents living along the nullahs have expressed frustration over the repeated delays, with local activists calling on the government and PMC to take responsibility for constructing the retaining walls. The civic administration has identified vulnerable locations such as Sinhagad Road, Shivajinagar, Khadakwasla, and parts of Pune Cantonment for the project, which is expected to provide relief to flood-prone areas.