The Khadakwasla Dam has reached 100 per cent of its storage capacity following sustained monsoon rainfall across the Western Ghats, prompting the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to increase water discharge into the Mutha River. Authorities have issued a public advisory urging residents to remain vigilant, particularly those living near the river and in low-lying areas, as discharge levels may be revised depending on rainfall and inflows into the reservoir.

According to the latest reservoir data, Khadakwasla is at full capacity, while other major dams supplying the Pune region continue to record high storage levels. Temghar is at 65.24 per cent, Panshet at 87.32 per cent, Varasgaon at 81.60 per cent, Pavana at 97.18 per cent and Mulshi at 87.90 per cent. The rapid rise in reservoir levels has been driven by consistent rainfall over the past few weeks.

The PMC said that from 10:00 am on Saturday, discharge through the Khadakwasla Dam spillway into the Mutha River would be increased by 4,708 cusecs, taking the total release to 6,643 cusecs. Officials cautioned that the discharge rate could be increased or reduced further depending on weather conditions and the volume of incoming water. Continuous monitoring of rainfall and reservoir inflows is underway to ensure safe dam operations.

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In its advisory, the PMC appealed to residents to stay away from the Mutha River channel and immediately remove any materials, vehicles or livestock from the riverbed. People living in low-lying areas have been advised to remain alert and take necessary precautions in case river levels rise further. Civic authorities have also urged citizens to follow only official updates and avoid unnecessary movement near the river.

The India Meteorological Department's forecast indicates that Pune is expected to experience mostly cloudy skies accompanied by light rainfall through July 31. Temperatures are likely to range between 22°C and 30°C, with no severe weather warnings currently in effect. However, officials have advised residents to remain cautious as rainfall in the catchment areas could continue to influence reservoir levels.

Rainfall data released by the PMC under its Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) network showed that Khadakwasla recorded the highest rainfall of 21 mm during the past 24 hours. Among city areas, Aundh-Baner received 15 mm of rain, followed by Warje-Karvenagar and Sinhagad Road with 11.6 mm each, Kothrud-Bavdhan with 10.4 mm and Yerawada-Kalas-Dhanori with 10 mm. Authorities said they would continue monitoring conditions closely and adjust water releases as required to ensure public safety.

Also Read: Khadakwasla Dam Reaches 94% Capacity as PMC Issues Public Advisory