Over 70 Pimpri Chinchwad Housing Societies Raise Alarm Over Water Crisis, Protest March Likely In May
Over 70 Pimpri Chinchwad Housing Societies Raise Alarm Over Water Crisis, Protest March Likely In May
Pune, April 17, 2026: A crucial meeting addressing the ongoing water scarcity issue in Ward D of the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) ended in dissatisfaction, as residents accused civic officials of offering vague assurances instead of concrete solutions.
The meeting, held under the directives of the Hon’ble High Court and the Divisional Commissioner, Pune, saw participation from representatives of over 70 housing societies under the Pimpri Chinchwad Housing Societies Federation. Key federation members, including Sachin Londhe, Uday Sabade, and Purushottam Patil, presented the legal dimensions of the prolonged crisis.
Despite the seriousness of the issue, the absence of most elected ward representatives drew criticism from attendees, with only one or two corporators present. The lack of political participation became a major point of concern during discussions.
Citizens expressed strong frustration over a water shortage that has persisted for over 13 years, raising multiple unresolved issues. Among the key demands were the publication of a list of builders who failed to ensure water supply despite obtaining occupancy certificates, action details against illegal water connections, and an explanation for the long delay in completing a water tank project at Kalewadi Kaspatewasti Road.
Residents also highlighted problems such as contaminated water supply, irregular distribution in areas like Pimple Saudagar, Wakad, and Tathawade, and prolonged delays in granting new water connections to housing societies. Many societies reported spending between ₹10 lakh and ₹1 crore annually on private water procurement.
Concerns were also raised over inconsistent water supply timings, lack of transparency in supply norms, and the growing gap between supply and demand. Officials acknowledged that the city currently receives around 670 MLD (million litres per day) of water against a requirement of approximately 800–810 MLD, leaving a significant deficit.
Additional concerns included the need for a new Pavana pipeline, the impact of rapid urban development on water resources, and allegations that water supply improved temporarily during the recent election period.
In response, municipal officials cited seasonal challenges, technical constraints, and rising demand as key factors affecting supply. They assured attendees that the issues raised would be discussed in the upcoming General Body meeting and that society-level concerns would be addressed individually. Officials also promised to make contact details of responsible officers publicly available.
However, with no immediate resolutions offered, residents are now considering organizing a protest march to the municipal corporation office on May 1 or 2.
The meeting concluded with the submission of written complaints from nine housing societies to municipal authorities, along with a call for urgent action and accountability.
