By Tejas

Pune, August 4, 2024:Continuous rains and increased water release from the Khadakwasla Dam have led to severe flooding in various parts of Pune, prompting the deployment of a contingent of the Indian Army for relief efforts in the affected areas, including Ektanagar.

Following a request from the collector's office, an army contingent swiftly joined the relief operations. Comprising around 100 jawans, the unit includes infantrymen from the Maratha Light Infantry, an engineer task force from the Bombay Engineers Group, and a medical team from the Army Hospital in Khadki. This well-equipped contingent brought along rescue boats, unmanned automated helicopters (quadcopters), and other essential rescue equipment to aid in the operations.

The commander of the defence force conducted a preliminary review of the situation in coordination with the civil administration. The increased water release from the Khadakwasla Dam has significantly raised water levels in many areas, causing extensive flooding and posing a serious threat to the residents.

In close cooperation with the civil administration, the Indian Army contingent has commenced evacuations of buildings and houses in the waterlogged areas. Residents are being relocated to safer places as quickly as possible. To ensure effective surveillance and rescue operations, quadcopters and inflatable rubber boats are being used to assess the flooded areas and implement necessary measures.

As part of the ongoing relief efforts, the team successfully rescued several trapped individuals from Dwarka Apartments. Emergency exit systems have been deployed in residential buildings experiencing heavy flooding to ensure the safety of the occupants. Additionally, reserve relief units have been kept on standby to provide further assistance if needed.