Water demands, Pune’s Khadakwasla dam has temporarily halted the release of water into the Mutha canal for rural areas. This decision arises from the observance of heightened water levels in ponds and lakes across rural territories, effectively mitigating immediate water scarcity concerns.
Recent statistics reveal a concerning decline in combined dam reserves within the Khadakwasla circle, currently standing at 7 TMC, marking a decrease from last year’s levels. Despite this, officials from the irrigation department affirm that adequate reserves have been safeguarded to meet the city’s drinking water requirements until July, with a decision regarding rural water releases scheduled for reassessment by May 31.
Amidst these deliberations, areas like Daund, Indapur, and Haveli, designated as drought-prone regions, have received extended water supplies exceeding initial plans. The deficit in water storage, attributed to insufficient and prematurely concluded monsoon seasons, underscores the challenges faced by the region. While Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) officials remain vigilant about water usage, no immediate water cuts are anticipated. However, with Pune’s monthly water draw from Khadakwasla at approximately 1.5 TMC, cautious management and allocation strategies remain imperative to navigate potential evaporation losses and sustain rural water provisions alongside urban demands.
