In a significant step towards resolving water supply issues, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has sanctioned 20 plots of land in its jurisdiction for constructing water tanks. These tanks are expected to collectively store approximately 3.5 lakh litres of water, providing a stable water supply to 32 villages under the PMC’s administration. This move aims to bridge the disparity in water availability across Pune, as the city grapples with growing demand and rapid urban expansion.
The recent inclusion of 34 villages into PMC limits, with 23 added in 2021 and 11 in 2017, has significantly stretched the city’s resources. However, two villages, Phursungi and Uruli Devachi, were excluded by a Maharashtra State Government ordinance, reducing the number to 32. Water to these villages is currently supplied via tankers and other provisional sources. The PMC has initiated a comprehensive water supply scheme, already operational in villages like Wagholi, Lohgaon, Sus, Mhalunge, and Bavdhan. The construction of water tanks will mark a substantial improvement in service reliability for these areas.
This initiative is vital from a civic perspective, as it addresses the pressing need for equitable water distribution. The identified villages for water tank construction include Ambegaon Khurd, Ambegaon Budruk, Jambhulwadi, Lohgaon, and others. These tanks will ensure that one-third of the total water supply is stored locally, enhancing efficiency and accessibility. The Water Supply Department, led by Nandkishore Jagtap, has expedited the planning process to meet these objectives, emphasising that adequate water storage is indispensable for sustained supply across the expanding municipal boundaries.
From a sustainability standpoint, the construction of decentralised water tanks will reduce dependency on water tankers, curbing fuel consumption and associated emissions. This initiative aligns with the principles of sustainable urban development, as it fosters water conservation and strengthens the city’s capacity to manage its resources amidst rapid urbanisation.
