Pune: Baner-Balewadi Residents Blame PCMC River Rejuvenation Project For Worsening Floods, Demand Probe
Pune: Baner-Balewadi Residents Blame PCMC River Rejuvenation Project For Worsening Floods, Demand Probe
Pune, July 8, 2026: Residents of Baner and Balewadi have alleged that the ongoing river rejuvenation project being undertaken by the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) is contributing to worsening flood conditions in their neighbourhoods. They claim that extensive filling carried out in the Mula riverbed in the Pimple Nilakh and Wakad stretches has narrowed the river’s natural channel, reducing its capacity to carry floodwaters during heavy rainfall.
With continuous rain over the past few days causing a sharp rise in the Mula River’s water level, several riverside areas in Baner and Balewadi have witnessed severe waterlogging, while floodwater has entered residential societies and homes in some locations.
According to local residents, the river rejuvenation work in Pimple Nilakh and Wakad involved dumping large quantities of earth and debris into the riverbed, effectively reducing its natural width. They allege that during periods of intense rainfall, the narrowed channel is unable to discharge water efficiently, forcing excess water downstream towards Baner and Balewadi and increasing the risk of flooding in low-lying areas.
Residents have also questioned whether adequate environmental studies and hydrological assessments were carried out before executing the river improvement project. They fear that altering the river’s natural course and width could have long-term consequences and may worsen flooding in the future if corrective measures are not taken.
Local citizens and social activists have demanded an immediate inquiry into the project to determine whether the riverbed modifications have contributed to the recent flooding in Baner and Balewadi. They have also urged the authorities to remove obstructions from the river channel and implement measures to restore its natural flow to prevent similar incidents during future monsoons.
A local resident said that the impact of the allegedly faulty river improvement work is already visible in Baner-Balewadi. “The natural width and flow of the river have been altered, which could prove extremely dangerous in the future. This year, after just two days of heavy rain, areas around Prathamesh Park and Jupiter Hospital witnessed an unprecedented rise in water levels—something residents say had never happened before. Water levels continue to rise, creating fear among citizens. The administration must immediately investigate the river rejuvenation project; otherwise, thousands of residents in Baner and Balewadi could face even greater risks in the future,” the resident said.
