Pune, August 10, 2023: The Panshet dam authorities have released approximately 600 cubic feet per second (cusecs) of water after the dam’s water level reached 96.76% of its full storage capacity earlier this week. This controlled release of water contributes to maintaining optimal water levels and preventing flooding, with the discharged water flowing into the Khadakwasla reservoir.
The Panshet dam is part of the larger water management system in the region, along with the Warasgaon and Temghar dams, collectively ensuring a steady water supply to the Khadakwasla dam. As of now, the combined stock in these major dams serving Pune stands at approximately 25.98 TMC (thousand million cubic feet).
Shweta Khurade, Executive Engineer at the irrigation department, shared insights into the water levels and management strategy. “The current stock in the Khadakwasla circle is 25.98 TMC, a significant increase from last year’s 21.34 TMC. Pavna dam’s stock has reached 7.94 TMC, and the Bhama Askhed dam, another vital water source, holds 6.79 TMC of water.”
Khurade also provided information about the rainfall in the Khadakwasla catchment area since June, stating that it received 293 mm of rainfall. However, a dry spell is anticipated until August 15. To address potential drinking water shortages resulting from inadequate rainfall, the irrigation department released 1,005 cusecs of water through the canal to Daund and Indapur. Additionally, 0.5 TMC of water was released from the spillway through the right bank canal to meet Pune’s drinking water needs.
Khurade emphasized the comprehensive planning in place to manage water supply during potentially scarce months. “Our planning considers a 15-month period, particularly focusing on June and July, when water scarcity is more likely. Dams maintain a flood cushion level lower than the optimum capacity to accommodate discharges from higher reservoirs and to be prepared for intense rainfall or cloud bursts.”
The irrigation department plays a crucial role in managing the water supply to Pune and its surrounding areas, including the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), and Maharashtra Jeevan Pradhikaran (MJP) for rural regions.
Current Dam Water Levels and Percentages:
- Khadakwasla: 1.83 TMC (92.61%)
- Panshet: 10.31 TMC (96.76%)
- Varasgaon: 11.30 TMC (88.11%)
- Temghar: 2.56 TMC (68.94%)
The controlled release of water from the Panshet dam underscores the importance of effective water management and the coordinated efforts to ensure a stable and sustainable water supply for the region.
