Will Pune Pay The Price While Tanker Operators Profit ? Water Cut Decision Under Scrutiny
Will Pune Pay The Price While Tanker Operators Profit ? Water Cut Decision Under Scrutiny
Staff Reporter
Pune, June 13, 2026: The Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) decision to impose alternate-day water supply from June 15 has triggered strong reactions across the city, with activists questioning the rationale behind the move despite what they claim is sufficient water storage in the Khadakwasla dam system.
Residents have expressed concern over the impending water restrictions at a time when the monsoon season is approaching. Social activist Vivek Velankar of Sajag Nagrik Manch alleged that water meant for city residents is being diverted for agricultural purposes and questioned whether political pressure was influencing decisions affecting citizens’ water rights.
PMC’s Decision
The PMC has announced that the city will receive water on alternate days starting June 15. The move is aimed at managing water resources, but critics warn it could lead to severe water shortages across Pune.
Velankar has demanded an explanation from the administration, arguing that the city is being pushed toward an unnecessary water crisis despite adequate reserves in the dams.
Dam Storage Figures Raise Questions
According to available data, the Khadakwasla dam project currently holds approximately 4.95 TMC of usable water. Based on Pune’s daily requirements, the city is expected to need around 2.65 TMC of water until July 31.
Activists point out that even after reserving 0.5 TMC for the annual Palkhi procession, sufficient water would remain to meet the city’s needs until August 20. They have questioned why the PMC imposed an effective 40–50 percent reduction in water supply when the Water Resources Department had reportedly recommended only a 15 percent cut.
Fears Of Tanker Dependence
Critics warn that the alternate-day supply system could leave large parts of the city without water for extended periods. Pune’s water distribution network has faced operational challenges in the past, and similar restrictions imposed in May reportedly resulted in some areas going without water for two to three consecutive days.
With half the city expected to remain without water on any given day under the new schedule, concerns are growing that residents may be forced to rely on private water tankers. Activists fear that tanker operators could benefit from the situation, leading to a sharp rise in tanker demand and prices.
The PMC has yet to respond to the allegations, but the decision has already sparked a debate over water management, resource allocation, and the impact of the restrictions on Pune residents.
