Amidst concerns of below-average rainfall, Pune finds itself at the precipice of a potential water crisis as its four key dams currently stand at only 89% capacity. This marks a significant dip from the same period last year when, on November 20, the dams collectively held a more reassuring 95% of their water storage. Despite the absence of immediate water scarcity, the Water Resources Department foresees a two-month shortage for the city, prompting heightened vigilance.
The Backbone of Pune’s Water Supply: Dams in Decline
Pune heavily relies on water sourced from the Temghar Dam, Varasgaon Dam, Panshet Dam, and Khadakwasla Dam, all integral components of the Khadakwasla Dam Project. Additionally, the eastern part of the city receives partial supply from the Bhama Askhed Dam. However, this year, the dams have accumulated less water due to lower-than-usual rainfall, raising concerns about sustained water availability.
In response to the scarcity, the irrigation diversion for the Rabi season from the Khadakwasla Dam Project is scheduled to commence from the new Mutha Ujwa canal on November 25. To navigate the anticipated shortage, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) plans to draw a reduced monthly quota of one TMC (thousand million cubic feet) from the municipal dam for various purposes, significantly less than the usual 1.5 TMC.
Strategic Water Allocation: Urgent Calls for Prudent Water Use
In a recent meeting of the canal advisory committee, the Water Resources Department urged the PMC to exercise judicious use of water, emphasizing the importance of reserving ample supply for drinking purposes while releasing the surplus for agricultural needs. Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and District Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar echoed this sentiment, instructing the PMC to conserve water in the same gathering last month.
Despite growing population demands and included villages, Pune’s request for a water quota of 20 TMC faced a hurdle as the Maharashtra Water Resources Regulatory Authority sanctioned only 12.86 TMC based on their criteria. An additional challenge arises as 15 TMC of water is earmarked to supply Pune City until July 2024.
As Pune navigates this delicate water balance, the approaching Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections add a layer of complexity. Authorities, wary of potential political repercussions, are compelled to avoid any disruption in water supply to both urban and rural areas, further complicating the equitable distribution of the available water in dams.
Current Stats and Future Concerns: A Ticking Water Clock
Presently, the total water storage in all four dams stands at 25.96 TMC (89.05%), a notable decrease from the 27.82 TMC (95.41%) recorded by November 20 last year. As the summer months approach, bringing an anticipated surge in water demand, factors like evaporation, theft, leakage, rural irrigation, and insufficient storage may elevate the reliance on water tankers. The Water Resources Department expresses growing concerns about the looming specter of a substantial water shortage.
