Pune District Dams Receive Promising Rainfall Boost
Pune district has witnessed a significant rise in rainfall, particularly in its ghat areas, leading to improved water storage in dams crucial for the region’s water supply. As of July 7, 2024, the Khadakwasla cluster of dams, including Khadakwasla, Panshet, Warasgaon, and Temghar, reported a storage of 6.50 thousand million cubic (TMC), marking a slight increase from last year’s 6.40 TMC. This accounts for 22.29% of total capacity, compared to 21.94% last year.
Areas like Tamhini, Lonavala, Shirgaon, Ambone, and Dawadi have received over 100 mm of rainfall within 24 hours, boosting water levels significantly. The Khadakwasla dam, situated in the Bhima River basin, leads with 50.63% storage capacity. Bhama Askhed reported 15.98%, a notable increase from last year’s 30.93% for the same period.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts continued rainfall over the next week in ghat areas, ensuring a further rise in dam water levels. A yellow alert has been issued till July 11 for Pune and neighboring districts like Satara, Ratnagiri, Raigad, Sindhudurg, and Kolhapur, predicting moderate to heavy rainfall in ghat areas and lighter showers in the city.
Senior meteorologist from IMD Pune stated that Pune will experience a cloudy sky during this period with occasional light rainfall. The irrigation department is closely monitoring dam levels and rainfall patterns to manage water resources effectively.
With ongoing favorable weather conditions, Pune district looks poised to benefit from continued rainfall, offering relief to water supply concerns in the region.