Strict Action Warning by PMRDA Chief Abhijit Chaudhari

Pimpri-Chinchwad, Pune: Taking a firm stand against the recurring waterlogging crisis in Hinjewadi–Maan IT Park, the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has issued a strong warning to officials. Metropolitan Commissioner Abhijit Chaudhari has made it clear that negligence will not be tolerated, and strict action will be taken if the area faces flooding again this monsoon.

During a pre-monsoon disaster management review meeting held at PMRDA headquarters in Akurdi, Chaudhari emphasized that accountability will be fixed under the Disaster Management Act if waterlogging or any mishap occurs due to poor planning or delays in execution.

The Hinjewadi–Maan IT corridor, a major employment hub, faces severe waterlogging and traffic congestion every monsoon. To address this long-standing issue, the administration has set May 31, 2026, as the final deadline for completing all pre-monsoon works, making it mandatory for all departments to act within the stipulated time.

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Special focus has been placed on drain cleaning and restoration work. Authorities have been instructed to:

Immediately clear major drains

Undertake deepening and widening of drainage channels

Remove encroachments obstructing water flow

Preserve natural water channels for smooth drainage

The meeting witnessed participation from multiple agencies including traffic police, MIDC, irrigation department, forest officials, and local governance bodies, highlighting the need for coordinated action.

Focus on Implementation, Not Just Planning

Commissioner Chaudhari directed all agencies, including National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), MIDC, PMRDA, and local gram panchayats, to work in coordination rather than shifting responsibility. Traffic management strategies suggested by Pimpri-Chinchwad traffic police will also be implemented to prevent congestion during heavy rains.

Waterlogging-prone “black spots” in Hinjewadi have been identified, and officials have been warned that any compromise in pre-monsoon preparedness will lead to direct accountability.

“No compromise will be accepted in pre-monsoon work. All tasks must be completed before May 31. Any loss of public property or life due to negligence will result in strict action against responsible officials,” said Abhijit Chaudhari.

Citizens Expect Relief This Monsoon

Echoing public sentiment, Sachin Londhe from the “Unclog Hinjewadi” campaign stated that the issue has persisted for years and cannot be resolved through meetings alone.

“This deadline is crucial. Only timely and effective implementation will bring real relief to citizens. All agencies must work together to ensure Hinjewadi does not suffer again this monsoon,” he said.

With the administration adopting a stricter approach and setting clear deadlines, residents and commuters are hopeful that this monsoon may finally bring relief from the chronic flooding and traffic chaos in Hinjewadi.