The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has successfully commenced operations for a newly installed pipeline connecting Cantonment Water Works to the Phursungi Water Scheme. The trials for the pipeline, which began on December 21, 2023, have been concluded, marking a significant step towards reducing water wastage and ensuring a more efficient water supply system.
Nandkishor Jagtap, Chief Engineer of PMC’s Water Supply Department, provided insights into the project, stating, “The commissioning of the pipeline is complete, and we have notified the irrigation department to cease water release from the canal. The irrigation department was previously releasing approximately 172 MLD (Million Liters per Day) into the Mutha canal. With the operationalization of the new pipeline, we are now drawing 12 MLD of water through this system, effectively saving the remaining 150 MLD that was previously being released into the canal unnecessarily.”
The Phursungi water scheme, which receives about 22 MLD of water, was previously dependent on the Mutha canal due to the lack of a direct pipeline from Cantonment water works. The new pipeline directly addresses this issue, eliminating the need for canal-based water supply.
With Pune facing a potential water crisis due to reduced dam water reserves, the PMC’s strategic initiative aligns with the need for water conservation. The irrigation department has urged the PMC to reduce daily water lifting from Khadakwasla dam, from which the PMC currently draws more than 1,500 MLD of water.
Jitendra Tiwari, a resident of Handewadi, emphasized the importance of the pipeline for water supply in the area, highlighting the need for alternative solutions. The irrigation department has officially closed the gates at the Cantonment Water Works, ceasing water release into the canal.
As the PMC takes proactive measures to secure water resources for the upcoming summer, the focus on optimizing water usage becomes paramount in addressing potential water shortages.
