Mumbai to Face Water Shortage on February 5-6 Due to BMC Pipeline Work
Mumbai residents will experience a significant water supply disruption from 11 am on February 5 to 5 pm on February 6, 2025, as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) undertakes a crucial 30-hour project to lay a new 2,400mm diameter water pipe. This new infrastructure is being installed between the Powai Anchor Block and the Maroshi Water Tunnel, aimed at enhancing the city’s water distribution system. While this work is essential for upgrading Mumbai’s water supply, it will temporarily halt water distribution from two key 1,800mm diameter pipes that supply water from the Tansa and Western regions, affecting many areas across the city.
The water cut will impact various parts of the city, especially residential, commercial, and industrial areas, leading to potential hardships for residents and businesses. On February 5, residents of Ghatkopar, Bhandup, Kurla, Dharavi, Andheri East, and Bandra East will face the brunt of the disruption. Specific locations in Kurla South, including Kajupada, Navpada, and Maharashtra Katta, will be severely affected, along with parts of Andheri East, such as Marol and Hill View Society. The water shortage will continue throughout the night, causing a ripple effect on daily life, particularly in high-demand areas.
The following day, February 6, will see further disruptions as additional regions across the city experience cuts. Affected areas include Bhandup West, Pratap Nagar, Sonapur Junction, Lal Bahadur Shastri Marg, parts of Kurla, Dharavi, and Andheri East. Bandra East, including the Kherwadi Service Road and Behram Pada, will also experience supply issues. The civic body has acknowledged the possibility of water appearing muddy post-pipeline installation, advising residents to boil water before consumption to ensure safety. While the work is critical for long-term infrastructure improvements, it inevitably poses short-term challenges for thousands of people who depend on a steady water supply.
The water cut is particularly concerning for residents in areas where water scarcity is already a recurring issue. BMC’s decision to upgrade its infrastructure comes at a time when water management has become a crucial issue in urban areas across India. Cities like Mumbai are struggling with growing populations and declining water resources, which calls for sustainable urban planning solutions. The BMC’s ongoing efforts to improve the water supply system through infrastructure enhancement must be balanced with a consideration for the immediate challenges faced by residents during such disruptions. It is crucial that the local government takes into account the socio-economic impact of water cuts, particularly for vulnerable communities who have limited access to alternative water sources.
From a sustainability perspective, Mumbai’s growing water demand presents a significant challenge for the city’s civic authorities. The ongoing efforts to upgrade water infrastructure are an essential part of creating a resilient and sustainable water management system. However, as Mumbai grapples with a depleting water table and increased demand, there is a need for long-term solutions that go beyond mere infrastructure expansion. Implementing water conservation techniques, promoting rainwater harvesting, and enhancing public awareness of sustainable water usage will be critical in ensuring the city’s future water needs are met without further stressing its resources. Balancing the urgency of infrastructure development with sustainable water management practices will ensure Mumbai remains livable for its growing population while mitigating the long-term impact on its water supply.
