Irrigation Dept Pune Warns Of Water Cuts From Feb 25 If PMC Fails To Clear ₹726 Crore Dues
Pune to Receive Uninterrupted Water Supply Despite Pending Dues
The irrigation department has issued a notice to the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) demanding payment of ₹726 crore in outstanding dues or face phased water cuts starting February 25. The notice, dated February 13, was issued by Khadakwasla project executive engineer Shweta Kurhade following PMC’s failure to clear the dues despite previous warnings.
Kurhade told Pune Pulse, “Since 2005, PMC has been lifting 11.5 TMC of water from the Khadakwasla reservoir, accumulating ₹726 crore in dues. If the payment is not made, we will reduce the city’s water supply in stages.”
This dispute between the PMC and the irrigation department has been ongoing for years. The PMC has contested the charges, claiming the irrigation department’s calculations were inflated and unjustified.
PMC has filed a petition with the Maharashtra Water Tribunal to address this issue. A permanent resolution is necessary.
During his recent visit to Pune, irrigation minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil criticized the PMC’s approach, emphasizing sustainable water management. He stated, “Municipal corporations must treat and reuse sewage water instead of demanding more from the irrigation department. Additional water requests should be backed by proof of efficient water management practices.”
As the deadline approaches, residents await whether the two authorities will resolve the dispute or if the city will face water cuts.
