Pune to Receive Uninterrupted Water Supply Despite Pending Dues
Pune to Receive Uninterrupted Water Supply Despite Pending Dues
Pune: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) will continue receiving an uninterrupted water supply from the Khadakwasla dam despite outstanding dues amounting to ₹714 crore. The water resources department had earlier warned of potential supply cuts, but a recent decision by the canal committee has ensured that the city’s water supply remains unaffected.
During a meeting held on Saturday, it was decided that PMC will receive approximately 21 TMC of water, comprising 11.60 TMC from Khadakwasla dam, 7.95 TMC in additional usage, 1 TMC from Bhama Askhed dam, and 0.60 TMC from Pavana dam. Water resources minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil confirmed that PMC will clear ₹200 crore of its dues by the end of March.
No Water Cuts Despite Excess Usage
PMC is currently consuming more water than its allocated quota, raising concerns about its impact on rural areas. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, along with Vikhe Patil, local MLAs, and officials from PMC and the water resources department, attended the meeting to discuss the issue.
Officials assured that no water cuts will be imposed since the city’s dams currently hold adequate water reserves. However, Patil emphasized the need for better water management, stating, “With Pune’s growing population, water demand will continue to rise. Discrepancies in supply and distribution need to be addressed with proper planning.”
Concerns Over Rural Water Supply
While PMC continues to use additional water, concerns have been raised about its impact on rural areas. Patil warned that excessive water usage by the city could lead to legal action from farmers due to disruptions in agricultural water supply. He urged authorities to find a sustainable solution to balance urban and rural water distribution.
With sufficient water storage in reservoirs, Pune residents can expect an uninterrupted water supply, at least for the foreseeable future. However, officials stress the importance of addressing long-term water management challenges to prevent conflicts over resources.
