The Pavana Dam, a lifeline for residents of Pimpri Chinchwad city, is currently grappling with diminished water levels, registering at 28.93% of its total capacity. While this volume is projected to suffice until the culmination of June, the decline from the previous year has sparked apprehensions regarding potential water scarcity, particularly if rainfall remains inadequate. Consequently, the reliance on private tankers by housing societies in Pimpri Chinchwad has witnessed a noticeable upsurge.
Water Management Strategies
Pimpri-Chinchwad is reliant on both Pavana and Andra dams for its water supply, with a rotational water distribution system in operation for the past four and a half years. In a bid to address future water requirements, the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has outlined plans to procure 267 million litres per day (MLD) from Andra and Bhama Askhed Dams, alongside the establishment of sewage treatment plants for water recycling. Despite the ongoing supply of water from Andra Dam to affected areas, grievances regarding insufficient water provision persist, exacerbated by the burgeoning population.
Impact of Weather Conditions
Despite the catchment area experiencing 17 mm of unanticipated rainfall, the inflow into the dam has not witnessed a substantial surge. However, the diminished evaporation rate attributable to climate fluctuations has partially offset water loss. April witnessed a surge in complaints regarding water supply discrepancies, albeit the PCMC observed a decline in grievances owing to the departure of numerous residents for summer vacations. Nevertheless, a multitude of housing societies continues to rely on tanker deliveries, with allocations adhering to a standard of 135 litres per capita. The ongoing construction of water conduits from the Bhama-Askhed Dam endeavors to assuage future water requisites, with slated completion earmarked for 2025.
Urban Water Management and Conservation
Presently, PCMC draws a daily water quantum of 615 MLD, primarily sourced from the Pavana Dam, supplemented by contributions from Andra Dam and the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC). Rajnish Baria, Branch Engineer of Pavana Dam, underscores the imperative of water conservation initiatives in urban locales, particularly in anticipation of potential rainfall delays.
Future Preparations and Assurance
Shrikant Sawane, Chief Engineer of PCMC Water Supply Department, offers reassurance that while water supply disruption grievances are currently at a minimum, a potential escalation is anticipated come June. Tanker deployments are reserved solely for such exigencies, with private housing societies availing tanker services as deemed necessary.
