Pune: PMC Issues Strict Water Conservation Measures Amid Weak Monsoon Forecast, Violators To Face Rs 10,000 Fine

Pune, June 20, 2026: In view of the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) revised southwest monsoon forecast and concerns over water availability, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has issued a comprehensive set of water conservation measures across the city. The directives, issued by the Water Supply Department on June 20, aim to ensure prudent use of available water resources and prevent wastage during the monsoon season.

According to the IMD’s revised long-range forecast released on May 29, 2026, there is a 24 percent probability that seasonal rainfall between June and September will be only 90 to 95 percent of the Long Period Average (LPA). The likelihood of receiving normal rainfall stands at 14 percent, while there is a 60 percent chance of rainfall being below 90 percent of the LPA. The IMD has also warned that El Niño conditions could adversely affect rainfall patterns.

Taking these projections into account, PMC has assigned responsibilities to various departments and officials to implement water-saving measures.

Ban on Washing Centres and Use of Drinking Water for Non-Essential Activities

PMC has directed that all public and private vehicle washing centres within municipal limits remain closed during the water-cut period. Assistant Municipal Commissioners have been instructed to ensure compliance. Any washing centre found operating will face a penalty of ₹10,000.

Health inspectors and municipal staff will conduct public awareness campaigns using mobile vehicles equipped with loudspeakers to inform citizens about water restrictions and encourage conservation.

Residents have been advised to use water judiciously for bathing, washing utensils and laundry. The use of borewell water or PMC-supplied water for washing vehicles, cleaning courtyards or footpaths has been prohibited.

Restrictions on Swimming Pools and Private Gardens

The use of potable water for private and public swimming pools, as well as private gardens, has been banned. Municipal officials will conduct inspections, and violations will attract a fine of ₹10,000.

Housing societies have been instructed to make the use of Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) mandatory. Notices will be issued directing societies to restart non-functional STPs and reuse treated water for gardening and flushing purposes.

Measures to Prevent Water Wastage

Citizens have been advised to ensure that overhead water tanks do not overflow and to install automatic float valves wherever necessary. Overflowing tanks will result in a penalty of ₹10,000.

The PMC Garden Department has also been instructed to stop using drinking water for municipal gardens.

Construction Sector Directed to Use Alternative Water Sources

The civic body has prohibited the use of potable water for construction activities. Builders and contractors must use treated STP water, borewell water or well water instead. Engineers from the Construction and Development Department will conduct inspections, and any construction site found using drinking water will face immediate work stoppage and a ₹10,000 fine.

Action Against Illegal Water Connections and Leakages

The Water Supply Department has been directed to take strict action against unauthorized water connections and initiate legal proceedings against offenders.

Officials have also been instructed to promptly repair water leakages across the city. Additionally, PMC will verify that water tankers supplied by the civic body are leak-free. Tanker operators found wasting water through leakages will face a penalty of ₹10,000.

The PMC stated that these measures are essential to safeguard the city’s water resources and ensure adequate supply in the event of a deficient monsoon.