The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Pune, Raigad, Satara, Beed, and Solapur districts, warning of moderate to heavy rainfall expected to continue through the week. This alert comes as a deep depression over the Bay of Bengal intensifies and moves westwards towards Maharashtra’s coast.
According to the IMD, the depression is likely to cross the Odisha–Andhra Pradesh coast around September 27. This system is expected to bring heavy to very heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds of 40–50 km/h to the affected districts. The Pune ghats are predicted to be particularly impacted on September 27.
Impact on Agriculture and Lives
Heavy rainfall has already caused significant damage to agriculture across the region. In Pune district, over 273 hectares of crops have been affected, impacting approximately 720 farmers in 63 villages. Key crops such as onions, vegetables, and marigolds have suffered from waterlogging and pest infestations. Talukas such as Purandar and Indapur have reported the highest crop damage.
Marathwada region, especially Beed district, has faced severe flooding due to persistent heavy rains. Fields have been inundated, soil erosion has intensified, and livestock losses have been reported. Since September 20, eight fatalities have been reported across the region, with Latur and Beed among the worst-hit districts. Over 1,500 people have been evacuated from flood-affected areas in Beed alone.
Infrastructure Disruption
The heavy rains have disrupted transportation and communication networks. The Pune–Solapur highway near Lamboti bridge in Mohol town has been closed due to flooding from the Sina River, causing significant traffic diversions. Several train routes have also been affected, leading to delays and cancellations.
Safety Precautions
The IMD has urged residents in the affected districts to remain vigilant, follow official updates, and take necessary precautions to safeguard life and property. The Maharashtra state government is coordinating with local authorities to monitor the situation and provide relief to affected communities.
Officials warn that the already saturated soil in these regions increases the risk of localized flooding and landslides, and residents are urged to avoid travel in unsafe conditions until the weather stabilizes.
As the depression approaches, authorities emphasize continuous monitoring and adherence to safety advisories to minimize further damage.
