The Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha Metro) has affirmed its resolve to continue construction of a vital foot over bridge (FOB) near the Baba Bhide bridge area in Deccan Gymkhana, even as early monsoon showers descend upon the city.
This strategic decision, coupled with a meticulously prepared contingency plan for potential water discharge from the Khadakwasla dam, highlights Maha Metro’s dedication to timely project completion while prioritising public safety and infrastructure integrity. The ongoing work is crucial for seamless pedestrian movement and integrates with Pune’s vision for a more accessible, environmentally conscious, and resilient urban transport network. The construction of this foot over bridge, which commenced in April and is slated to extend beyond the first week of June, is a critical component of enhancing last-mile connectivity for the Deccan Gymkhana Metro station to the Narayan Peth area. To facilitate accelerated completion, vehicular traffic has been diverted from the Baba Bhide bridge since the work began. However, the unexpected early onset of the monsoon, bringing significant rainfall to both the city and the dam catchment areas, has introduced a new dynamic to the construction timeline and safety protocols. The potential for rising water levels in the dams and subsequent discharges into the Mutha river, which flows through Pune, poses a direct challenge to the ongoing operations.
Officials from Maha Metro have confirmed their readiness to navigate these weather-induced complexities. They have established robust communication channels with the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and the state irrigation department, ensuring real-time alerts regarding dam water levels and discharge forecasts. A Metro official stated, “We are in constant touch with Pune Municipal Corporation and the state irrigation department. There will be immediate evacuation in case of a discharge alert.” This proactive approach is designed to minimise risks, allowing for the swift removal of heavy machinery and construction materials from the site if water release becomes imminent. The Khadakwasla dam, a relatively smaller reservoir with a live storage capacity of 1.97 TMC, typically initiates water release into the river when its storage approaches the 80 per cent mark, as per the irrigation department’s Standard Operating Procedure (SOP). While the dam’s catchment areas have experienced consistent rainfall over the past few days, its current storage level stands at 48 per cent, indicating a buffer before discharge becomes necessary. Nevertheless, the memory of last year’s sudden increase in Khadakwasla dam discharge, which led to a significant rise in the Mutha river’s water level and subsequent flooding in low-lying areas, underscores the prudence of Maha Metro’s cautious approach.
Local residents from the Deccan Gymkhana area have also voiced their expectations from city authorities, urging the PMC and city police to implement restrictions on vehicle parking along riverside roads in anticipation of any potential water discharge. Such measures are vital for ensuring unobstructed flow of floodwaters and preventing property damage, aligning with the broader goal of building flood-resilient urban infrastructure. This community input highlights the collaborative spirit required to manage urban development challenges, particularly in the face of climate variability. Maha Metro’s continued commitment to the foot over bridge construction amidst the monsoon period reflects a strategic balancing act between accelerating essential infrastructure development and adhering to stringent safety protocols. By deploying cranes and other necessary machinery, the project aims to progress efficiently. This proactive risk management, coupled with inter-agency coordination, demonstrates a mature approach to urban development.
Ultimately, the successful completion of this foot over bridge will not only enhance the connectivity of Pune’s burgeoning metro network but also serve as an exemplar of resilient infrastructure planning in the face of environmental challenges, contributing to a truly sustainable and accessible city.
Also Read: Maha Metro Continues FOB Work Near Flood-Prone Zone
Pune Metro Builds Key Footbridge Amidst Monsoon Challenge.