The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is on the brink of implementing weekly water supply cuts as a result of dwindling water storage in the Khadakwasla project dams. These dams, which serve as vital resources for drinking water in the city, are facing a significant decline in water levels, posing grave challenges for municipal authorities.
Key Points:
- Depleting Water Storage: The water storage in the Khadakwasla project dams, including Temghar, Panshet, Khadakwasla, and Varasgaon, has plummeted to critical levels. With only 10.22 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) of water left out of a total storage capacity of 29.08 TMC, projections suggest that the water may be exhausted by the end of May.
- Challenges for the Pune Municipal Corporation: The PMC is already struggling to meet the escalating water demands in newly merged villages and suburban areas. Currently, an average of 1,200 to 1,400 tankers are dispatched to these regions to address the water scarcity issue.
- Imminent Water Supply Reduction Measures: In response to the looming water crisis, officials have hinted at the imposition of a water cut immediately after the conclusion of the electoral drive for the Lok Sabha elections. The PMC aims to implement weekly water shutdowns to conserve the remaining stored water and ensure its availability until at least mid-July.
- Concerns Over Water Management: Despite plans for water conservation measures, concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of weekly water shutdowns. A recent video shared by a resident showcased water wastage occurring within the PMC office itself, raising doubts about the corporation’s commitment to efficient water management.
- Impact on Residents: The recent instances of water shutdowns and low-pressure water supply have resulted in significant inconvenience for residents, prompting a surge in complaints to the civic body. Last week alone, the PMC received 169 complaints, highlighting the disruptive effects of even a temporary interruption in water supply.
As the water crisis intensifies, the PMC faces mounting pressure to implement effective measures to mitigate the impact on residents while ensuring the sustainable management of water resources. With the specter of weekly water supply cuts looming large, concerted efforts are needed to address the immediate challenges and safeguard the city’s water security in the long term.
