The Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), and local gram panchayats have set a strict May 31 deadline for the completion of all pre-monsoon maintenance across the Hinjewadi IT Park. Authorities will conduct a comprehensive survey to ensure that drain pipes are cleaned and natural water streams are cleared within their respective jurisdictions before the deadline, as stated by Rajendra Totla, executive engineer for MIDC.
Inspection of Sewage Treatment Plants
As part of the drive, MIDC and PMRDA will inspect the sewage treatment plants (STPs) of IT companies and residential complexes to ensure they are fully operational. Any facilities found discharging untreated waste will be reported to the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB) for immediate action. Babasaheb Kukade, MPCB regional officer, said that while formal directions are pending, the board is prepared to conduct inspections. Although no major enforcement actions were taken in Hinjewadi earlier this year, the MPCB has recently completed a city-level audit of untreated sewage discharge.
Residents' Concerns Over Waterlogging
A primary concern for residents is the recurring waterlogging at Doehler Chowk. Poonam Korde, a Hinjewadi resident, noted that the flooding in July 2025 was a major pain point, caused by hill run-off that rebounded onto the road due to embankments constructed beyond the road line. In response, MIDC has installed underground pipes to divert run-off. However, the project faced hurdles on April 9, when MIDC officials discovered that some companies were illegally discharging untreated sewage into these specific drainage pipes. This unauthorised use not only caused environmental damage but also hindered the scheduled pre-monsoon cleaning of the network.
Revival of Natural Streams
To further mitigate flood risks, the PMRDA, in coordination with the gram panchayat, plans to revive five natural freshwater streams that feed into the Mutha river. These streams will be restored either by clearing encroachments or by creating alternative routes. Many of Hinjewadi's natural waterways have been diverted or reclaimed due to rapid construction, a factor that contributed significantly to past flooding. In July 2025, PMRDA conducted several anti-encroachment drives to reclaim these vital drainage channels.
Challenges from Metro Construction
MIDC also highlighted several logistical challenges posed by ongoing Metro work. Incomplete station construction has resulted in blocked gutters, damaged footpaths, and deteriorating road surfaces, all of which could impede commuters during heavy rain. Additionally, authorities expressed concern over recent incidents where Metro construction accidentally severed transmission cables, leading to widespread power outages in the IT hub.
