THANE – In a proactive move to combat water wastage and conserve dwindling resources, the Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has implemented strict restrictions on water usage across the city.
Municipal Commissioner Saurabh Rao announced the measures, which include a ban on vehicle washing at garages and stern warnings to housing societies to address any water leakages or face severe consequences. The urgency of these directives stems from a state-level analysis revealing that reservoirs in the Konkan region currently hold only 37% of their water capacity. This alarming statistic has coincided with a rising dependence on water tankers in parts of the Thane district. Municipalities, including Thane, which source their water from these reservoirs, are at risk of severe water shortages if immediate action is not taken. “These directives are essential given the impending threat of water scarcity,” stated Commissioner Rao in an official press release. “The decision to halt all vehicle washing at roadside centres until June 10 is a necessary step. Violators will face stringent action.”
The municipal authorities are particularly focused on mitigating water wastage through vehicle washing and repairing leaking pipes and tanks in residential societies. The TMC has issued a stern warning to housing societies, emphasising that failure to fix leaks could result in the disconnection of water supply lines. “The measures are temporary and will be reassessed once the monsoon season begins and reservoir levels are replenished,” an official from the TMC elaborated. The official also highlighted that the restrictions are part of a broader strategy to ensure sustainable water management during periods of low rainfall and high demand.
The situation is being closely monitored, and the TMC is prepared to extend or modify the restrictions based on the water levels in the coming weeks. This pre-emptive approach aims to ensure that the city can navigate through the critical period before the onset of the monsoon without facing severe water shortages. The TMC’s decision reflects a growing trend among urban centres to adopt more rigorous water conservation measures in response to fluctuating weather patterns and increasing water demand. By implementing these restrictions, Thane joins other municipalities in taking decisive steps to safeguard its water resources and ensure the well-being of its residents.
As the city braces for potential water scarcity, the TMC’s initiatives serve as a reminder of the importance of water conservation and responsible usage. Residents and businesses alike are urged to comply with the new regulations and contribute to the collective effort to preserve this vital resource.
