India, June 15 -- Climate variability and rapid urbanisation has turned Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad into waterlogged areas during spells of rain. Experts blame blocked drains, rampant concretisation, and vanishing natural water channels for turning roads into waterlogged corridors.

They warn that unless urgent corrective measures are not taken, the city will continue to struggle with severe waterlogging for at least the next five years. They flag unsegregated waste choking sewage and stormwater lines, illegal construction on natural streams and drains, and unchecked concretisation that prevents rainwater from seeping into the ground.

Studies indicate that 30%-40% of rainwater once used to percolate naturally into the earth, easing surface...