Maharashtra: CM Eknath Shinde inspects flood-hit areas of Pune, instructs officials to find permanent solution

CM Shinde met and distributed relief materials to the people in flood-affected areas of Pimpri Chinchwad. He also listened to the grievances of people.

The city has been experiencing persistent heavy rain for the past few days.

On the flood-like situation in Pune, CM Eknath Shinde said, "People staying on the banks of the river and those living in buildings falling on the 'Blue Line' (imaginary line to mark potential flood zone) should be rehabilitated appropriately."

Speaking to reporters, he further said, "I have instructed concerned officials to find a permanent solution to various civic issues in Pune. I also held a review of the riverfront development project and instructed officials to make sure that this project shouldn't block river waters or the flow of the river in any way."

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also held a meeting with all senior officials of the Pune district administration to take stock of the situation after heavy rains lashed the city in the past few days.

Earlier on Sunday, the Indian Army carried out relief work in the Ekta Nagar area in response to incessant rainfall in Pune and the release of excess water from the Khadakwasla Dam.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicted heavy rainfall at isolated places in ghat areas. Light to moderate rainfall in the plains for August 6, while moderate rainfall for August 7.

Earlier on July 25, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar visited flood-affected areas in Ekta Nagar and Vitthal Nagar of Pune city to take stock of the situation.

After the visit, Ajit Pawar said, "There was never such an issue of waterlogging or flooding here in these areas but we don't know why it happened this time. The Revenue Department and the Municipal Corporation will come and do the needful."

Earlier in July, the District Fire Brigade rescued 70 people who had been stranded in the flood waters in the Nimbjanagar area of the city following heavy downpours. (ANI)