Pune: Monsoon has barely begun, but the suburbs of Wakad, Tathawade, and Punawale are already drowning in chaos. Ten natural drains along the Mumbai-Bangalore highway have been rendered non-functional due to rampant construction by private developers. The result: widespread waterlogging, traffic gridlock, and growing commuter frustration.
Key underpasses and service roads near Tathawade’s Indira College, Bhujbal Chowk, and Punawale have turned into waterlogged stretches, with knee-deep water halting traffic and stranding vehicles for hours. This recurring crisis is caused by the absence of proper stormwater and sewage drainage in these rapidly urbanizing areas near Hinjewadi IT Park.
In a letter dated May 21, 2025, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) informed the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) that construction along both sides of the highway has blocked several natural drains. NHAI has urged the civic body to immediately divert rainwater and sewage into natural or alternative drainage systems before the situation worsens.
Residents, however, expressed their frustration, saying they have heard similar assurances year after year. A local resident summed up the feelings of many by stating, “This happens every year. Authorities discuss the problem, but nothing ever changes on the ground.” This sentiment resonates with thousands who face the same recurring issues each monsoon season.
With over a hundred housing projects developed in the region, and a significant influx of new residents, the area is already under pressure. Despite several meetings and inspection drives, including one led by MLA Shankar Jagtap just days ago, no concrete action has been taken to address the root cause.
10 Natural Drains Lost to Development
According to NHAI, a total of ten natural drainage channels that once helped manage monsoon runoff have been either filled in or blocked by cement pipes and debris during construction of bridges and roads. With no exit paths left, rainwater and sewage now flood service roads, exacerbating traffic woes.
Official Inaction, Public Frustration
While NHAI blames PCMC for poor drainage management, the civic body counters that NHAI failed to design adequate water outlets below the highway. As the two agencies trade accusations, citizens are left to bear the brunt of stalled commutes, rising vehicle damage, and health concerns from stagnant water.
“NHAI didn’t provide proper drainage under the highway, which is why water collects on one side,” said Devanna Gattuwar, Joint City Engineer, PCMC. “We’ve started connecting a few blocked drains and are working on ensuring water doesn’t stagnate in critical areas.”
But residents remain skeptical, as the promises made every monsoon season rarely translate into lasting solutions.
With the rains just beginning and the drainage system already overwhelmed, commuters and citizens fear the worst is yet to come.
