Depleted Khadakwasla Reservoirs Prompt Suspension of Agricultural Water Supply
The Irrigation Department has announced plans to discontinue the release of water for agricultural use in the Khadakwasla region within the next two to three weeks. This decision comes in response to a significant water shortage, with reservoir levels plummeting by over 2 TMC compared to the same period last year. The shortfall in water reserves poses a threat to the city’s water supply, potentially extending beyond a month.
As of April 1, data provided by the Irrigation Department indicates that the total stock across the four dams in the Khadakwasla circle stands at 12.17 TMC, representing only 41% of their full capacity. This starkly contrasts with the previous year’s figure of 14.55 TMC on the same date, equivalent to 50% capacity. An official from the department confirmed that ongoing water discharge will be halted in the coming weeks due to dwindling reservoir levels. However, there are currently no immediate plans to curtail water supply to the city. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has been urged to monitor daily water consumption and promote judicious usage until the end of May.
The official highlighted the challenges posed by this year’s reduced water levels, especially considering the anticipated rise in demand due to soaring temperatures. Of particular concern are the Panshet and Varasgaon dams, where water levels have dipped below 50% of their total capacity. Combined, these dams boast a storage capacity exceeding 23 TMC. Additionally, the Temghar dam, with a capacity of 3.7 TMC, now holds less than 10% of its capacity. In anticipation of a delayed monsoon, the Irrigation Department is contemplating reducing water discharge for rural areas by at least one week to avert a potential crisis. Similar measures were implemented last year, resulting in the conservation of approximately 0.5 TMC of water during the release phase.
The ongoing water distribution for agricultural purposes commenced last month and was slated to continue for 45 to 50 days until the third week of April. During this period, the Irrigation Department has been supplying water to regions including Indapur, Daund, and facilitating pond refilling in Bhadalwadi, Bhigwan, among other areas.
