Pune district highlight a stark contrast between the city’s urban areas and its crucial dam catchments, crucial for water supply. Over the past 24 hours, significant rainfall has been recorded in the catchment areas of Temghar, Varasgaon, and Panshet dams, with figures standing at 80mm, 33mm, and 36mm respectively. These reservoirs, along with Khadakwasla, form the backbone of Pune’s water supply system in the Mula-Mutha sub-basin.
Urban Pune experienced minimal precipitation, with the Shivajinagar observatory and Lohegaon recording negligible rainfall figures of 0mm and 0.2mm respectively. The disparity underscores the critical role played by monsoonal patterns in sustaining regional water resources. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the current monsoon trajectory over Maharashtra has resulted in robust rainfall across the ghat sections, including Tamhini, Lonavla, Malin, and Khed. These areas received varying amounts of rainfall, contributing to the replenishment of local water reservoirs and enhancing agricultural prospects. Meteorological experts anticipate continued light to moderate showers in urban Pune until July 12, with isolated heavy rainfall expected in the ghat regions. The IMD forecasts a potential shift in the monsoon trough towards southern regions, indicating increased rainfall activity across the state from July 10 onwards. “While the coastal and ghat regions of Maharashtra have benefited from recent rains, districts in Marathwada and Vidarbha continue to face rainfall deficits, prompting concerns among agricultural communities,” highlighted a senior IMD official. The uneven distribution of rainfall poses challenges for farmers in over 20 tehsils, who may need to consider resowing crops due to inadequate precipitation.
Meanwhile, in Mumbai, the city’s seven lakes have witnessed a notable increase in water levels, rising from 5.46% to 14.52% between June 30 and July 7. This rise, amounting to approximately 9%, marks a critical improvement compared to previous years, where water stocks were significantly lower at the same period. “The recent boost in lake levels is pivotal for Mumbai’s water supply, addressing previous deficits observed in recent years,” stated civic authorities. The rise comes as a relief amidst concerns over water scarcity, reflecting the impact of recent monsoonal patterns on urban water resources. Looking ahead, stakeholders in Pune and Mumbai are closely monitoring meteorological developments to gauge the sustainability of current water levels and agricultural prospects amidst variable monsoon dynamics.
