Pune Faces Water Crisis Amid Rising Demand: Dams’ Declining Levels and Reduced Supply Hours
Pune Faces Water Crisis Amid Rising Demand: Dams' Declining Levels and Reduced Supply Hours
Pune is bracing for a surge in water demand as summer temperatures rise. While the city’s water supply situation is currently better than last year, with combined dam storage at 49.44% compared to 46.78% in 2024, water levels are still declining. This is evident in the drop from 53.40% on March 11 to the current level.
A closer look at individual dams reveals that Khadakwasla reservoir is currently at 70.90%, significantly higher than its 2024 level of 54.39%. Panshet reservoir stands at 51.37%, while Temghar is at 11.23%. Warasgaon dam is at 55.59% capacity. Pavna’s water level is at 49.31%, Kasarsai at 45.70%, and Mulshi at 49.32%.
Are there water cuts in Pune?
Despite assurances from the Canal Advisory Committee that there would be no water shortages or supply cuts in Pune, residents are facing reduced water delivery hours and weak pressure. This unauthorized water curtailment by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is causing widespread concern.
Saving water regularly is proving difficult as residents from various localities report weaker water flow and shorter supply durations. In Kothrud and Erandwane, for example, water pressure has decreased and supply hours have been shortened. Previously, water was available until 9 am, but it is now cut off at 8 am.
The low pressure is also making it challenging for residents in Gokhale Nagar, Janwadi, and Wadarwadi to fill their water storage tanks. Even though water is provided from 8 PM to 1 AM, homeowners are forced to stay up late to ensure they get enough water due to the low pressure hindering the filling of storage tanks.
The water situation in Pune remains precarious, with ongoing disputes between the PMC and the Irrigation Department adding to the uncertainty. Despite Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar’s order for the PMC to pay Rs 100 crore in arrears, the PMC is only willing to pay Rs 44 crore initially. This long-standing dispute over dues stems from the PMC’s refusal to accept extra fees charged by the Irrigation Department. Last month, the department threatened consequences if the PMC failed to pay for water lifted from the dam.
The current situation highlights the potential for water scarcity in Pune in the coming months. However, during a recent meeting with PMC officials, Ajit Pawar emphasized the need to ensure sufficient water supply to the city. He instructed both the Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporations to strictly plan water usage until July 15, 2025. Instead of focusing on the payment dispute, Pawar urged the administration to prioritize addressing water supply complaints from residents facing low-pressure supply.
