Pune: Khadakwasla dam with only 10.22 TMC water amidst increasing water crisis 

Pune city is grappling with a looming water crisis. Currently, only 10.22 TMC (Thousand Million Cubic feet) of water remains in the Khadakwasla, Temghar, Panshet, and Varasgaon dams, which typically supply drinking water to the city.

According to Nandkishor Jagtap, Chief Engineer, Water Department, Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC), ” We currently have 10 TMC water out of which 4 TMC is used for drinking purposes, 5 TMC will be used for other purposes, 1 TMC for evaporation. This is how we have planned to use the water. The TMC has dropped since last year, which means that the factor of safety incase of less rainfall will be missing this year.”

Compared to last year, the water levels have plummeted by 2.62 TMC. The total storage capacity of these four dams is 29.15 TMC, but, currently only a fraction remains.

The Khadakwasla project, the primary source of water for Pune, struggles to meet demand. Out of the 29.15 TMC capacity, a mere 10.22 TMC is available today, whereas last year saw 12.84 TMC at the same time. Adding to the strain, Pune’s water consumption surpasses its allocated quota.

While the city is sanctioned 14.61 TMC annually, its actual usage reaches 20.49 TMC. This equates to an average monthly requirement of 1.70 TMC. Urban expansion compounds the issue, with 23 more villages now under Pune Municipal Corporation’s jurisdiction, increasing the demand by over two TMC monthly.

To avert a crisis, Pune residents must adopt water-saving practices immediately. Simple steps like fixing leaks, reducing shower times, and reusing water can collectively make a significant impact.