India, March 2 -- As part of early preparations for the 2026 monsoon, the Solapur district administration has stepped up flood response training, with nearly 500 'Aapda Mitra' and 'Aapda Sakhi' volunteers currently undergoing intensive boat-driving practice at Siddheshwar Lake. The drive, led by the District Disaster Management Authority, aims to ensure that trained local responders are ready to act immediately if flood-like conditions arise anywhere in the district.

"For 2026, we began our flood preparedness planning well before the monsoon," said Shaktisagar Dhole, disaster management officer, Solapur district. "Based on pre-monsoon rainfall trends and IMD projections, we are closely monitoring developments and strengthening our respon...