Pune, June 20, 2025 — The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for Pune and surrounding ghat regions, forecasting heavy to extremely heavy rainfall over the next 48 hours. The alert comes amid an active monsoon phase and is part of the IMD’s impact-based weather warning system designed to highlight both the intensity and potential consequences of severe weather.
As per IMD officials, rainfall is likely to exceed 204 mm in 24 hours in isolated areas, especially in hilly terrain such as Tamhini Ghat, Lavasa, Lonavala, Mulshi, and Mahabaleshwar. The forecast has triggered widespread alerts in urban and rural regions across Pune district.
The Pune district administration has activated its disaster management protocol. Control rooms at the district and taluka levels are operational, and local authorities have been directed to remain on high alert. Instructions have been issued to ensure that rescue equipment, emergency personnel, and relief materials are ready for immediate deployment if the situation worsens.
District Collector Suhas Diwase confirmed that the administration is monitoring the situation closely. “All departments have been asked to remain prepared for any eventuality. If rainfall increases significantly, a decision may be taken to temporarily suspend operations in educational institutions located in high-risk zones,” he said.
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has intensified flood mitigation efforts. Officials have been deployed to inspect and clear major stormwater drains, while temporary pumps are being stationed in flood-prone areas. The city’s emergency helpline has been strengthened, and response teams are on standby.
Civic officials have also urged residents not to venture out during periods of heavy rain and to avoid traveling through known waterlogging hotspots. The PMC has published advisories through official social media handles and local news channels, emphasizing preparedness and cooperation from the public.
Ghat sections are expected to face higher risks of landslides, road blockages, and reduced visibility, particularly in areas prone to terrain-related disruptions. The IMD has included a warning for such risks in its alert, prompting highway patrol units and local police to monitor road conditions around the clock.
Public access to popular tourist destinations such as Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar may be temporarily restricted. The tourism department has advised against travel to these locations until the red alert is lifted. Trekkers and private tour groups have also been cautioned against venturing into the hills, as the weather could worsen rapidly.
The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has been asked to review the movement of buses along ghat roads. If required, services will be diverted or temporarily suspended to ensure passenger safety.
Meteorologists have linked the intense rainfall to an ongoing monsoon surge combined with the development of a low-pressure system over the Arabian Sea. These conditions have led to a strong influx of moisture over the western coast, with the interior parts of Maharashtra, including Pune, expected to receive sustained rain through the weekend.
Experts indicate that the current weather pattern is typical of an active monsoon phase but can pose serious risks if not properly managed. The IMD has stated that the red alert may be reviewed based on real-time conditions and further satellite data.
Residents across Pune district and nearby areas have been advised to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. People living in low-lying areas and along riverbanks are urged to remain alert for any signs of water level rise. Local authorities have asked all citizens to stay informed via official weather bulletins and cooperate with disaster management teams if evacuation or precautionary relocation is required.
