To concerns raised about Pune’s water supply, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis assured uninterrupted and sufficient water provision for the rapidly growing city. During an Assembly session on Wednesday, MLA Ravindra Dhangekar highlighted the city’s burgeoning water needs, prompting Fadnavis to outline a comprehensive strategy to secure Pune’s future water requirements.
Recognising Pune’s importance as a major educational and industrial hub, Fadnavis emphasised the government’s commitment to enhancing water sources to accommodate the city’s expanding population, which now includes 23 new villages under the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA). Pune’s current population stands at 7.2 million, receiving 11.7 TMC of water against a sanctioned amount of 14.61 TMC, leaving an excess of approximately 3 TMC. However, the city’s water consumption is significantly higher, at 20.87 TMC, nearly double the allocated supply.Fadnavis detailed several initiatives to bridge this gap. A key project is the construction of a tunnel from Khadakwasla to Fursungi, designed to deliver an additional 2 TMC of water. The renovation of the Khadakwasla canal will contribute another 1.25 TMC, while enhancements to the old Mutha canal will yield an extra 5 TMC. Additionally, Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) projects under the river improvement scheme will facilitate water reuse, mandating industries within a 50-kilometre radius of an STP to utilise recycled water.
To further support these efforts, developers will be required to cover the cost of water supply for residential complexes until municipal services are in place. Fadnavis also underscored the importance of rainwater harvesting in new buildings and the necessity for developers to include solid waste and water management plans when marketing properties.Significant water leakage has been a persistent issue in Pune, contributing to the discrepancy between provisioned and consumed water. The Equal Water Distribution Scheme, currently underway, aims to reduce water leakage by 40 per cent. Upon completion, it is expected that leakage will decrease from 40 per cent to 20 per cent, significantly improving water efficiency in the city.Fadnavis’ assurances and the outlined measures reflect a proactive approach to addressing Pune’s water challenges. These initiatives are poised to not only meet the immediate water demands but also to establish a sustainable framework for the city’s future growth. As Pune continues to expand, the government’s strategic interventions will be crucial in ensuring a reliable and adequate water supply for its residents.
