Pune Municipal Commissioner Dr Rajendra Bhosale has sounded the alarm over the alarming levels of water consumption in Pune, marking a pivotal shift in the city’s approach towards water management.
This concern arises amidst ongoing disputes between the Water Resources Department and Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) regarding water allocation, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions to address the growing water crisis. Bhosale underscores the concerning discrepancy between recommended and actual water usage, revealing that while the recommended daily water consumption per person stands at 150 litres, Pune residents are consuming an average of 270 litres per day. This excessive use not only strains water resources but also poses significant challenges for effective water management, particularly in the face of Pune’s burgeoning population. Despite initiatives introduced by the PMC to address water scarcity, many villages, such as Mhalunge, continue to grapple with inadequate water supply. In Mhalunge, water is delivered via tankers every four days, a schedule that falls short of meeting the needs of the growing population. PMC’s plan to increase the number of tankers aims to alleviate immediate water shortages; however, the lack of proper water distribution infrastructure remains a persistent hurdle in villages like Mhalunge.
Dr Bhosale emphasises the importance of long-term planning for water supply, emphasising the necessity for sustainable water management practices to cater to both urban and rural communities effectively. The current situation underscores the urgency of adopting measures that promote efficient water usage and conservation, ensuring equitable access to this vital resource for all residents. As Pune continues to experience rapid urbanisation and population growth, addressing water scarcity requires a multi-faceted approach that encompasses infrastructure development, community engagement, and policy interventions. By prioritising sustainable water management strategies, Pune can navigate its water challenges more effectively, safeguarding the well-being of its residents and ensuring the city’s long-term resilience in the face of water scarcity.
