Pune’s civic administration is poised to deliberate on potential water supply adjustments this week, buoyed by a current reservoir stock of 3.7 TMC (Thousand Million Cubic Feet) across the four dams within the Khadakwasla circle.
Officials from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) indicated that despite the imminent discharge of 0.5 TMC for the Wari procession, the remaining 3 TMC is earmarked for essential drinking water supply and agricultural needs. A senior PMC official reassured residents that immediate water cuts are unlikely, given the current reservoir levels can sustain Pune’s water requirements until mid-July. “Areas under PMC jurisdiction typically consume around 1.5 TMC of water until mid-July, a demand that should be met comfortably based on our current reservoir status,” the official affirmed. Furthermore, recent rainfall in the catchment areas of Ujani dam, crucial for water supply to regions dependent on it, has alleviated pressure on Pune’s water resources. “The onset of June witnessed substantial showers in both PMC and Ujani’s catchment areas, providing a significant relief,” remarked another PMC spokesperson. However, with a temporary lull in precipitation, officials cautioned against complacency and urged citizens to utilize water judiciously.
PMC’s proactive stance contrasts with last year’s preemptive water cuts, initiated from May until July, which impacted various parts of the city, including Kharadi and adjacent localities. Alternating day water supply schedules were subsequently enforced across wider city segments. Looking ahead, PMC’s water supply department disclosed plans for a crucial consultation this week with senior civic and India Meteorological Department (IMD) officials. This meeting will determine forthcoming water management strategies contingent on updated weather forecasts and reservoir assessments. “The outcomes of our dialogue with IMD will steer our next steps,” affirmed the PMC water supply department official. Should the forthcoming fortnight witness inadequate rainfall, considerations for potential water conservation measures, including supply cuts, will be reassessed to ensure sustained water availability throughout the season. Pune residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and cooperate with PMC’s water conservation efforts amid the evolving monsoon patterns and strategic reservoir management decisions in the coming weeks.
