Citizens watch in fear as authorities release water from the brimming Khadakwasla dam into the Mutha river following heavy rains in the city

After fearing a drought like situation, Pune finally has more water than it needs. Motorists and commuters near Deccan Gymkhana panicked after water from the Khadakwasla dam was discharged into the Mutha river on Tuesday and yesterday following heavy rains.

The Baba Bhide Bridge was closed for vehicles, and some vehicles parked on the banks of the Mutha floated into the water, but were later retrieved by the police.

All gates open
Irrigation authorities have opened all the six sluice gates of the Khadakwasla dam to discharge the excess water in order to release the pressure on the dam. Rakesh Saraf, a chartered accountant working in a private firm, said, "I didn't want to be caught in my vehicle with the water flowing so strong. So, I thought it wiser to take an autorickshaw to work," he said.

However, the water resources department maintains that commuters have nothing to worry about as the rivers are capable of taking more water. Moreover, the traffic board and the PMC are keeping a close watch on these areas.

Don't worry
A V Surve, superintendent engineer, Pune irrigation circle, said the 10,000 cusecs of water released so far is too small a quantity to worry about. "There is nothing to panic about, as the rivers can take up to 30,000 liters of water. Even the low lying areas are safe, as necessary precautions are being taken," said Surve.

MiD DAY contacted Vijay Palsule, inspector of the traffic department, who clearly mentioned that the situations are undercontrol and the water level has reduced. Even areas like Vishranthwadi are undercontrol. He added, "The Baba Bhide Bridge that had been closed has opened today and commuters are using it."