No OC for new buildings until water scarcity issue resolved , informs Thane Municipal Commissioner

The Ghodbunder area in Thane witnessed a surge in new housing complexes, with citizens investing substantial amounts in these properties. However, despite considerable expenditure on homes, residents continue to grapple with water scarcity issues.

Many parts of Thane are suffering from water scarcity. It also affects the housing complexes in the Ghodbunder area and they have to pay money for water. In 2017, the High Court ordered permission for construction in Thane on the condition that a committee be formed to solve the problem of water scarcity and meet twice a month.

In response to this persistent problem, Municipal Commissioner Abhijit Bangar has issued directives to the City Development Department, emphasizing on withholding the Occupancy Certificates (OC) until a comprehensive water plan for Ghodbunder is in place.

The water scarcity situation in Ghodbunder was highlighted during a public hearing chaired by Commissioner Bangar. The area faces challenges such as insufficient sanctioned water quotas, low water pressure in various zones, irregular water supply, and a lack of information on the duration of water availability. Residents are compelled to bear the financial burden of five to seven lakhs for water tankers each month.

Despite efforts initiated since 2013 to address the water problem, the issue persists, raising concerns about the feasibility of new constructions in an area already grappling with water shortages for existing residents. Commissioner Bangar has taken a proactive stance, directing the City Development Department to refrain from issuing OC for new constructions in Ghodbunder until a comprehensive water plan is devised and implemented.

The public hearing also brought to light the lack of water audits since 2008, prompting Commissioner Bangar to issue an order for annual water audits moving forward. 

The move aims to enhance transparency in water management and address the long-standing water-related challenges faced by the citizens of Thane.