Bhopal’s Upper Lake, a vital source of drinking water for the city, has shown remarkable improvement in water levels, signalling a promising outlook for the region’s water security as it enters the hotter months. As of March 26, the water level stood at 1662.1 feet, reflecting a 0.6-foot increase over the previous year’s readings for the same period. This marks an encouraging recovery for a body of water that plays an essential role in supplying nearly 40% of Bhopal’s drinking water.
This increase in water levels, though modest, brings with it renewed confidence for the city’s water supply system. The Bhopal Municipal Corporation (BMC) has reported that, based on consumption patterns over the last 53 days, the Upper Lake contains enough water to last an additional 16 days into 2025, should the current water extraction rates persist. This stability is critical as the city braces for a rise in temperatures and, consequently, water consumption. While the Upper Lake recorded a higher level of 1664 feet on February 2, the water level has since declined by 1.9 feet. Despite this drop, BMC officials remain optimistic about the city’s ability to meet its water demands. The lake reached its full tank level (FTL) of 1666.8 feet at the end of the previous monsoon season, and the municipal corporation is confident that these reserves will be enough to support the city through the upcoming summer months, during which water extraction is typically ramped up to meet rising demands.
Bhopal’s water consumption is expected to increase significantly as the city’s population grows. In the coming years, it is projected that by 2031, the city will require 543 million litres of water per day (MLD) to meet the needs of its residents. However, this figure does not account for the approximately 15% water loss that occurs due to inefficiencies in the distribution system. As a result, Bhopal will have to carefully manage its water resources to ensure equitable and sustainable access for all citizens.
In addition to the Upper Lake, Bhopal draws water from three other key sources: the Kolar Dam, Narmada River, and Kerwan Dam. These multiple water sources help to diversify the city’s supply, reducing its dependence on any one resource and providing a safety net during periods of water scarcity. However, as climate change and population growth put increasing pressure on these water sources, it will be crucial for Bhopal to continue developing sustainable solutions to meet its future water demands. The rising water levels in the Upper Lake, combined with the ongoing efforts by the BMC to efficiently manage water resources, offer some hope for the city’s water security in the years ahead. But with projections indicating that the city’s water demand will continue to grow, Bhopal must stay vigilant in its approach to water management and explore additional measures to conserve and augment its water supply.
