The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has taken decisive action by disconnecting a total of 178 unauthorised water connections.
The municipal authority’s response comes in the wake of mounting complaints from areas and villages on the city’s periphery regarding inadequate water supply, signalling a concerted effort to address the pressing issue of water scarcity. Among the unauthorised connections identified, a significant portion, totalling 26, were exclusively utilised for construction purposes within the preceding month. This underscores the imperative for stringent enforcement measures to curtail unauthorised water usage, particularly in sectors contributing to urban development and infrastructure expansion.
The PMC’s initiative aims to preserve water pressure and ensure equitable distribution of water resources, particularly in regions experiencing acute water shortages. Notably, the Hadapsar neighbourhood in Pune accounted for 30 of the grievances received, further emphasising the urgency of addressing water scarcity concerns in high-impact areas. Prasanna Joshi, Superintendent Engineer of the PMC water supply department, revealed that the month of April witnessed the disconnection of 178 unauthorised water connections. These illicit connections were identified as significant contributors to disruptions in water supply, exacerbating challenges in meeting the water needs of outlying areas. Joshi highlighted instances where specific sections within the SNDT water treatment facility were found utilising unauthorised tap water for construction activities, further compounding the issue of unauthorised water usage. The PMC’s commitment to stringent enforcement is evident in its proactive measures to terminate unauthorised water access across various sectors, including labour camps and construction sites.
The urgency of water conservation measures is underscored by the dwindling water reserves in Pune’s dams, with the Khadakwasla chain presently holding approximately nine thousand million cubic feet (TMC) of water, representing a decline of over two TMC compared to the same period last year. In response, the district collector of Pune has implemented stringent water consumption guidelines to promote conservation efforts and alleviate the strain on dwindling water resources. The PMC’s decisive action to disconnect unauthorised water connections reflects a proactive stance in addressing water scarcity challenges, signalling a commitment to sustainable water management practices and fostering resilience in the face of environmental pressures. By leveraging enforcement measures and promoting water conservation initiatives, Pune stands poised to mitigate the impact of water scarcity and ensure the equitable distribution of this vital resource for its residents.
