In response to the imminent water scarcity looming over Pune district due to insufficient rainfall last year, District Collector Suhas Diwase has initiated a series of proactive measures aimed at alleviating the crisis.
With water levels in dams across the district dwindling significantly, urgent action is imperative to mitigate potential hardships. Under the directives of Collector Diwase, immediate steps are being taken to shut down illegal water filling stations and vehicle washing centres, underscoring the critical importance of conservation efforts. Additionally, a comprehensive survey of swimming pools and water parks within the district’s purview has been commissioned, with potential closures looming on the horizon. Concurrently, ongoing construction projects may face temporary halts if deemed essential.
While the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has already initiated enforcement actions, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and the Pune Metropolitan Regional Development Authority (PMRDA) are urged to expedite similar measures, highlighting concerns over delayed responses. A recent convened meeting chaired by Collector Diwase with water resource officials and municipal authorities underscored the severity of the situation, emphasising the need for concerted efforts.
Data from the water resources department paints a grim picture, with major dams in the state recording a mere 34.51% storage capacity. Critical suppliers like the Khadakwasla and Pavana dams, catering to Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, are hovering around 36% capacity, exacerbating concerns. To address immediate challenges, the administration is deploying 407 tankers in the Pune division, servicing 76 villages and 500 settlements. Purandar taluka, experiencing acute shortages, necessitates the dispatch of 51 tankers, with an additional 21 deployed in Baramati.
With sustainability in focus, the administration plans to utilise water from Khadakwasla and Pavana dams until at least July 15. Strict directives have been issued to all local bodies to exercise prudence in water usage, emphasising equitable distribution between urban and rural areas. Nandkishor Jagtap, head of the PMC water department, underscores the urgency of the situation, citing diminishing reservoir levels and the imperative for collective action. Collector Diwase echoes these sentiments, stressing the need for immediate measures to alleviate rural distress and ensure equitable access to water resources. As the district braces for an extended period of scarcity, the administration is poised with a revamped shortage plan, tailored to address prolonged drought conditions. Monthly assessments and interventions are slated to ensure effective crisis management and safeguard the well-being of the affected populace.
