No Water Cuts for Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad This Summer, Assures Ajit Pawar Ahead of Lok Sabha Polls

In a recent meeting of the canal committee, Pune district guardian minister Ajit Pawar announced that there will likely be no water cuts for Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad this summer, owing to the upcoming Lok Sabha (LS) election. The decision comes in response to complaints from residents about low-pressure water supply in certain areas.

During the meeting, Pawar instructed the administration to maintain the water supply and assured that no water cuts would be introduced for Pune city. He also mentioned that Pavana and Bhama Askhed dams have sufficient storage, eliminating the need for water cuts in Pimpri-Chinchwad as well.

Pawar further directed the irrigation department to release water for agricultural purposes starting March 4. The meeting, attended by various officials including Baramati Member of Parliament Supriya Sule and Karjat-Jamkhed legislator Rohit Pawar, aimed to decide on water management strategies for the upcoming summer season.

While addressing the water resource department, district, and city administration, Pawar emphasized the importance of reserving potable water until July 15 and maintaining the current water supply for Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. He also urged the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to focus on water conservation and efficient treatment of sewage water for alternative purposes.

The meeting took place amid considerations by the PMC water department for potential water cuts. However, with the Lok Sabha polls approaching in less than three months, legislators attending the meeting collectively advocated against water cuts in their respective areas.

Pawar highlighted ongoing projects such as the planned underground tunnel between Khadakwasla and Phursungi, which, once completed, would contribute additional drinking water for residents. He instructed the water resource department to address leakages promptly.

Following the meeting, Supriya Sule expressed concerns about water scarcity in Baramati and Purandar tehsils, urging the government to take action and provide fodder for cattle. Rohit Pawar emphasized the need for uninterrupted water supply in his constituency, a demand that received approval from the guardian minister.