Pune: Citizens’ group ChaloPMC has launched a citywide survey to document flooding and identify vulnerable locations across Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad.The decision comes in response to waterlogging during spells of rain between July 1 and 8 that impacted several residential areas, society entrances, parking spaces and vehicles. ChaloPMC founder Ameet Singh told TOI: “The survey collects firsthand observations from affected individuals and housing societies. Pune received half the season’s rainfall of over 500 mm in seven days after none in June. This is a climate whiplash event.”He said the purpose was to build evidence based on how urban surface conditions (concrete versus green cover), natural drainage, river and floodplain dynamics and topography influence pluvial (local) flooding during extreme rainfall events.“Science shows that tree canopies and vegetated soils intercept and absorb a substantial portion of rainfall (often 30%-60% — depending on intensity and conditions), while concrete and impervious surfaces produce near-complete runoff. Natural riverbanks and floodplains provide critical storage and conveyance capacity. Hills and their vegetation influence runoff speed and volume. The responses will help document real-world patterns and support discussions on protecting and enhancing trees, green cover, hills and natural river/floodplain functions to improve Pune’s long-term flood resilience,” he said. Singh further said there also existed a direct link between the Riverfront Development Project-related dumping in water bodies, reclaiming of nullahs and converting it into construction sites and recurrent flooding. The linkages would also get explored, evidenced and established with the survey data.The citizen-led survey seeks information from residents whose homes, vehicles, daily commute or localities were affected by flooding or waterlogging. Housing societies have also been told to nominate one representative to submit details about flooding on their premises — including parking areas, basements and entrances.The survey would also collect information on blocked drainage, loss of green cover, concreting and construction in areas vulnerable to flooding. Residents can submit details through an online form.
