Pune To Receive Adequate Water Supply Despite Dues: Minister Vikhe Patil
Pune To Receive Adequate Water Supply Despite Dues: Minister Vikhe Patil
Pune, March 3, 2025 : Maharashtra’s Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, who had earlier warned of cutting off Pune’s water supply over pending dues, has softened his stance. He assured that the city will receive an adequate water supply this year, as the Khadakwasla dam has sufficient water reserves. In a key decision taken during the Canal Advisory Committee meeting, Pune’s annual water quota has been maintained at 21 TMC (thousand million cubic feet), easing concerns about water shortages.
Municipal Water Usage Under Review
Minister Vikhe Patil stated that a meeting will be held next week in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, bringing together officials from the Water Resources Department and the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to discuss the city’s excessive water consumption.
On Saturday, a Canal Advisory Committee meeting was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar at the Vidhan Bhavan. The meeting was attended by Minister Vikhe Patil, city and district legislators, municipal commissioners, district collectors, and senior officials from the Water Resources Department.
Water Supply Allocation for Pune
Taking into account the current water levels in the Khadakwasla Dam, it was decided to maintain the city’s water supply. The Water Resources Department confirmed that the city will receive:
- 11.60 TMC of water sanctioned for Pune
- 7.95 TMC of additional water traditionally drawn by the municipal corporation
- 1 TMC from Bhama Askhed Dam
- 0.60 TMC from Pavana Dam
This ensures Pune will get 21 TMC of water from various sources.
Pending Dues and Financial Settlement
Discussing PMC’s excessive water usage and outstanding dues, the minister instructed the municipal corporation to deposit ₹200 crore with the Water Resources Department by the end of March. He acknowledged Pune’s growing population and emphasized that additional water allocations must be carefully managed. However, he highlighted a discrepancy in the city’s water supply and its treatment process, calling for corrective action.
Concerns Over Rural Water Supply
Minister Vikhe Patil cautioned that PMC’s overuse of water could impact rural areas and farmers, potentially leading to legal battles. He announced that a joint meeting with all city legislators and irrigation department officials would be held soon to resolve the matter.
Ajit Pawar’s Silence on the Issue
Previously, the Water Resources Department had issued a notice to PMC regarding its pending water bills, warning that water supply could be cut from February 25 if dues were not cleared. This statement sparked discontent among BJP city representatives. However, during the recent meeting, Minister Vikhe Patil appeared more accommodating toward Pune’s needs. Interestingly, Deputy CM Ajit Pawar remained silent on the issue and avoided addressing the media regarding the water supply concerns.
