Mandate for STP Water Usage at Sites Reflects Urgency in Water Conservation Efforts
Pune, India – In a proactive response to the escalating demand for water at construction sites, Pune Municipal Commissioner Rajendra Bhosale has initiated stringent measures to promote the use of treated water from sewage treatment plants (STPs). With a pressing need to conserve freshwater resources and address the city’s water scarcity, Bhosale’s directive aims to enforce sustainable practices across construction activities.
Enforcing Water Conservation:
- Bhosale’s mandate underscores the significance of utilizing treated water for construction purposes, aiming to alleviate pressure on freshwater sources and mitigate Pune’s water crisis.
- The municipal commissioner has directed the water department to compile a comprehensive report within a week detailing the current utilization of STP water at construction sites, with non-compliance leading to immediate cessation of construction work.
Addressing Water Demands Amidst Construction Boom:
- A recent survey conducted by the PMC engineering department revealed a surge in construction activities covering an area of 50 lakh square feet in Pune, exacerbating the demand for water.
- Despite the availability of treated water, onsite inspections unveiled widespread non-compliance among developers, prompting Bhosale to escalate enforcement measures.
Urgency in Water Conservation:
- Bhosale emphasized the urgency of water conservation efforts, particularly in the face of diminished rainfall and depleted water levels in dams, adversely affecting the city’s water supply.
- Acknowledging the severity of the situation, the PMC has prioritized water tanker supply to residents in newly merged villages grappling with acute water shortages.
Strategic Enforcement Measures:
- The civic body has issued notices to 200 site developers, seeking explanations for their failure to adhere to the directive on STP water usage.
- Out of 326 ongoing construction projects under PMC’s jurisdiction, only 128 are currently utilizing treated water, highlighting the widespread non-compliance with Bhosale’s order.
As Pune navigates its water crisis, Bhosale’s decisive actions underscore the critical need for sustainable water management practices and collective efforts to address the city’s water challenges.
