Hydraulic Engineer’s Department at the BMC’s Bhandup Complex reveals that Mumbai’s seven major reservoirs have reached 28% of their total storage capacity—roughly 40 lakh million litres (ML). While this marks a modest rise, civic officials remain cautious, as the levels are still significantly below the comfort mark required to ensure an uninterrupted water supply for the rest of the year.
As of 6:00 AM on Monday, June 23, the city has received cumulative rainfall of 363.00 mm. This has contributed to a gradual, yet vital, uptick in lake storage. However, the uneven distribution of rainfall across lake catchments and the continued volatility of the monsoon make it clear that water availability remains precariously dependent on the next few weeks of precipitation.The Upper Vaitarna reservoir, which plays a crucial role in the city’s water network, has seen a marginal drop in its level, now standing at 598.48 metres. It holds about 75,726 ML of water. Notably, since June 9, no water has been released from this reservoir, indicating the city’s cautious approach in preserving stored volumes.
Meanwhile, Modak Sagar and Tansa continue to remain relatively stable. Modak Sagar has risen to 147.38 metres with 20,197 ML in storage, while Tansa has reached 121.45 metres, with 30,153 ML. These two lakes collectively serve as crucial buffers during lean rainfall days and are closely watched by municipal planners.Middle Vaitarna, with its current water height of 238.60 metres, holds 19,127 ML. Its WSCPO gate remains shut, signalling that conservation remains a top priority. Bhatsa, Mumbai’s largest reservoir, holds the lion’s share with an elevation of 103.25 metres and a massive storage capacity of 7.17 lakh ML. Of this, over 5.78 lakh ML is earmarked for municipal use. Officials continue to prioritise strategic utilisation, especially given Bhatsa’s key role in sustaining supply through prolonged dry spells.
Vihar Lake, though one of the smaller reservoirs, currently holds 5,226 ML at 75.32 metres. Despite limited rainfall in its catchment area, every drop remains crucial as the city advances into July—traditionally a turning point in Mumbai’s monsoon timeline.According to weather forecasts by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), heavy rainfall is expected across the Konkan-Goa region, which includes Mumbai, in the coming days. City officials hope this will translate into improved reservoir levels, but contingency planning is underway should rains continue to underperform.
Authorities are also placing emphasis on promoting responsible water usage and have asked citizens to stay alert to conservation advisories. With over 60% of storage still to be replenished, civic engineers and hydrologists stress the importance of sustained rainfall through July and early August to reach safe thresholds.
Although this early monsoon surge has lifted lake levels to some degree, the city’s full water security still hinges on stronger and more sustained downpours across its catchments in the weeks ahead.
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