Pune Likely To Face Alternate-Day Water Supply From Next Week Amid Low Dam Storage
Pune To Reinstate Alternate-Day Water Supply From July 15 As Dam Storage Remains Low
Pune, June 4, 2026: Residents of Pune may soon have to adapt to alternate-day water supply as the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) considers water rationing measures due to dwindling water reserves in the Khadakwasla dam system.
According to civic officials, only about 5.72 TMC of water remains in the chain of reservoirs that supply drinking water to the city. Concerned about ensuring adequate water availability over the next three months, the Water Supply Department has submitted a proposal to PMC Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram recommending alternate-day water distribution beginning next week.
Officials warned that if current consumption levels continue without any restrictions, the available water stock may last only until the end of July. The situation is further complicated by forecasts indicating below-normal rainfall this year and a possible delay in the arrival of the monsoon.
To review the situation, the Municipal Commissioner chaired a meeting with Water Supply Department officials on Wednesday. Various water conservation measures, including supply cuts, were discussed during the meeting.
Given the significance of the decision and its impact on citizens, the civic administration plans to hold consultations with representatives of political parties before implementing the revised water supply schedule. Officials have already prepared a draft timetable for the proposed water rationing.
The concern stems from the absence of significant pre-monsoon rainfall so far, despite the onset of June. Weather forecasts also suggest that the monsoon could arrive nearly two weeks later than usual. Civic authorities believe that introducing restrictions now would help preserve water reserves and ensure supply continuity until reservoir levels improve.
The city currently draws approximately 1.60 TMC of water every month. Based on existing demand, Pune would require around 4.80 TMC over the next three months.
In addition, officials estimate that nearly 1.80 TMC of water could be lost through evaporation during this period. Around 0.80 TMC is also expected to be required for ongoing agricultural water releases.
Taking these factors into account, authorities estimate that at least 6.60 TMC of water should ideally be available in the reservoir system. However, the current storage stands at only 5.72 TMC.
Officials estimate that implementing alternate-day water supply would reduce the city’s monthly water requirement to about 1.15 TMC. This could help save nearly 1.40 TMC of water over three months, providing a crucial buffer until the monsoon replenishes reservoir levels.
If approved, the new water supply schedule is expected to come into effect next week, affecting households across Pune city. Residents have been urged to use water judiciously and avoid wastage during this critical period.
