Pune: Heavy rains lead to water discharges from Khadakwasla and Pavana dams, citizens advised to stay alert
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Pune, August 24, 2024: Due to heavy rainfall in Pune district, particularly in the catchment areas of dams, water is being discharged from Khadakwasla and Pavana dams resulting in increase of water level in rivers flowing through the city.
Water Discharge from Khadakwasla Dam
At 11:00 AM, 2,140 cusecs of water were discharged from the Khadakwasla dam spillway. This discharge was later increased to 4,708 cusecs by 12:00 noon, with a further increase to 6,446 cusecs at 1:00 PM. The discharge rate continued to increase throughout the day, reaching 8,734 cusecs by 2:00 PM, 12,958 cusecs at 3:00 PM, and finally 19,118 cusecs by 4:00 PM.
Authorities from the Mutha Canal Sub-Division, Pune, have advised citizens not to enter the riverbed and to shift any materials, animals, or equipment from near the riverbeds. The situation is constantly changing, and further changes in the discharge rate may occur depending on the rainfall’s intensity and duration.
Water Discharge from Pavana Dam
As Pavana dam is nearly 100% full, it is also discharging water into the riverbed. Currently, 1,400 cusecs are being released, which may increased to 2,100 cusecs. Citizens residing in low-lying areas along the Pavana River have been asked to take precautions and cooperate with the Water Resources Department to avoid any risks.
The increased discharge was necessitating by rising water levels in the dam caused by ongoing heavy rain in Pune, Pimpri Chinchwad, and the surrounding dam areas, particularly in the Ghat regions.
Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Commissioner Shekhar Singh has ordered the city’s emergency systems to remain on high alert and has asked the residents living near the riverbanks of Pavana, Indrayani, and Mula rivers to stay alert.
Both PMC and PCMC have deployed rescue teams equipped with necessary gear, prepared to act swiftly should the situation worsen. All citizens are urged to remain cautious and adhere to the guidelines issued by the authorities to ensure safety.
