Homes of leprosy survivors in Pune inundated, PMC yet to act

Jyoti Bagade, wife of Deepak Bagade, highlighted the problems, explaining that their raw houses, located in a corner, are experiencing increased water flow. “With a government hospital nearby, releasing water into the lake exacerbates the flooding. My husband and I work as housekeepers, leaving our 8-year-old son alone at home. It’s difficult to leave him in this condition, fearing undesirable incidents,” she said.

Shamuwel Tayade, 29, lives with his parents, who are leprosy survivors with limited mobility. He explained that the situation has worsened, causing difficulties in recovering from their wounds. “Although the staff inspected, no action has been taken. Knee-deep water has destroyed everything at home, forcing us to make temporary cooking arrangements,” he said.

Pannalal Pundalik Nikam, who heads the association of colony residents, stated that despite paying taxes residents are left vulnerable as water seeps into their fragile shelters. “A specially-abled child is trapped in this unsafe environment, his life at risk. The relentless struggle of these residents is heart-wrenching, yet authorities turn a blind eye.”

The PMC officials visited the colony told the Indian Express they would return the following day and inspect the issue.

Rajen Paste, a PMC engineer overseeing drainage systems, said that if the issue is within his department’s jurisdiction, they will address it and find a solution as quickly as possible. “Otherwise, if it falls under the waterlogging department’s responsibility, they will handle the resolution,” he said.