Amidst scorching temperatures and dwindling reservoir levels, Maharashtra finds itself in the grip of a severe water crisis, reminiscent of Bengaluru’s recent plight.
Recent reports indicate that major dams across the state have plummeted to a mere 32.72% of their total storage capacity, painting a bleak picture of water scarcity.The Pune Municipal Corporation has responded to the crisis by imposing strict restrictions on water usage within the city. This proactive measure aims to conserve dwindling water resources and curb wastage amidst escalating demand and diminishing supply. The severity of the crisis is further highlighted by the significant decline in water levels compared to the previous year. Major dams in Pune, including Khadakwasla, Temghar, Panshet, and Varasgaon, currently hold only 10.31 TMC of water, a stark contrast to the 12.91 TMC recorded during the same period last year.
An official from the Maharashtra water resources department attributes the decline in dam water levels to the combination of scorching temperatures and reduced rainfall, exacerbating the situation. With only 138 major dams across the state holding a mere 32.72% of their total storage capacity, urgent measures are imperative to address the escalating crisis. As Maharashtra grapples with the ramifications of the water crisis, stakeholders must collaborate to implement sustainable water management strategies and ensure equitable access to water resources. The crisis serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for proactive measures to safeguard against future water scarcity and build resilience in the face of climate change.
