Pune is set to implement an alternate-day water supply schedule starting June 15, as water levels in the dams supplying the city have dropped to critically low levels. The decision, announced by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), aims to conserve water and ensure supply until the monsoon replenishes the reservoirs.
The city’s water reserves are primarily sourced from the Khadakwasla dam chain, including Panshet, Varasgaon, and Temghar dams, along with a smaller contribution from Bhama Askhed and Pawna dams. These reservoirs currently hold a significantly reduced amount of water, with estimates suggesting only about 3 TMC is available for the city’s use after essential allocations. This situation has been exacerbated by a delayed monsoon and predictions of below-normal rainfall, influenced by factors such as the El Niño effect.
Water Conservation Measures Enforced
In response to the water scarcity, the PMC has directed the closure of swimming pools and vehicle washing centers. Construction sites are also prohibited from using municipal water supply. These measures are part of a broader effort to reduce the city’s daily water consumption, which is expected to be cut by approximately 500 MLD, bringing the total supply down from around 1,600 MLD to 1,100 MLD.
Mayor Manjusha Nagpure emphasized the need for judicious water use, stating, “The available storage must be used judiciously, so a water cut is being introduced. The residents are asked to use water carefully and stop wastage.” The alternate-day supply is intended to ensure that the available water lasts until at least August 20, a critical period before monsoon inflows are expected to stabilize.
Impact on Residents and Future Outlook
The implementation of alternate-day water supply is expected to cause inconvenience to residents, with concerns raised about increased reliance on private water tankers, which may subsequently become more expensive. The PMC has appealed to citizens to store adequate water in advance and use it judiciously. Detailed schedules for water supply in different parts of the city have been announced, with specific days designated for supply in various localities.
While the situation is concerning, civic officials have indicated that the current water stock is similar to that of the previous year. However, the uncertain monsoon forecast necessitates these precautionary measures. The state irrigation department had previously advised the PMC to implement water cuts, but the decision was deferred pending a review of weather forecasts. The PMC is also intensifying efforts to identify and fix leakages in the water distribution network to further curb wastage.
A temporary exception to the alternate-day schedule will be made during the annual palkhi procession from July 8 to July 11, with daily water supply to be provided during that period before the rationing resumes.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
