Undri – Mohammedwadi Water Crisis: Demand Grows For Revival Of Autadewadi And Wadachiwadi Lakes To Boost Groundwater Recharge

Renuka Suryavanshi 

Pune, June 22, 2026: As water scarcity continues to trouble residents of Undri, Mohammedwadi and surrounding areas, calls for the revival of the historic Autadewadi and Wadachiwadi lakes are gaining momentum. Citizens are increasingly advocating for the restoration of these neglected water bodies, viewing them as a sustainable solution to the region’s recurring water shortages and growing dependence on private water tankers.

The demand comes at a time when several parts of Pune’s areas are facing alternate-day water supply and declining groundwater levels. Residents believe that rejuvenating the two lakes can play a crucial role in strengthening local water security, improving groundwater recharge and reducing pressure on the civic water supply system.

Sanghamitra Karmakar, MC member and Resident of Godrej Prana in Undri said, “As a resident of Undri, I have seen how our lakes have slowly deteriorated over the years. The Autadewadi and Wadachiwadi lakes are not just beautiful water bodies; they are an important source of groundwater and play a key role in maintaining the area’s natural balance.” 

She added, “At a time when many parts of Pune are facing water shortages, protecting these lakes has become more important than ever. These lakes sit on a rich natural water bed that helps recharge groundwater and supports the surrounding ecosystem. Encroachments, pollution, and years of neglect are putting these valuable natural resources at risk. The time for discussions is over. What is needed now is serious administrative action and a clear commitment from the government to revive and protect these lakes. Residents have repeatedly raised concerns, and we urge the authorities to take immediate steps to restore the water bodies, protect their boundaries, and prevent further damage. I also believe these lakes can become a source of pride for Undri. A well-planned lake park, similar to the popular Mastani Lake development in Saswad, can create a space where families can relax, children can connect with nature, and residents can enjoy a cleaner and greener environment.”

Reviving these lakes is not just about saving water; it is about protecting Undri’s future.

Mohammedwadi Undri Welfare Development Foundation Comments : 

The lakes at Autadewadi and Wadachiwadi represent a vital yet neglected lifeline for local residents. Naturally fed by hillside water flows, these water bodies hold tremendous potential to address the growing water crisis threatening this region.

With monsoon season approaching, urgent desilting of these lakes must be treated as a war footing priority. Years of accumulated silt have drastically reduced water storage capacity, depriving communities of a resource that could otherwise sustain them through dry months. If desilting is completed before the rains arrive, the lakes could capture and retain significantly larger volumes of precious rainwater — delivering immediate, lasting relief to residents. These lakes are critical and must be fully restored. Proper desilting will dramatically increase water storage and accumulation capacity during the rainy season, transforming these neglected water bodies into robust community assets capable of supporting residents year-round.” 

It is worth noting that Additional Commissioner Pritviraj B P had previously visited the site and personally assured residents that the lakes would be revived.  However, despite that promise, no concrete action has followed. Later in the year he got transferred too. This broken commitment has deepened frustration among the community, who continue waiting while the water crisis worsens.

Equally critical is establishing proper boundary infrastructure. Unchecked illegal activities vehicle washing, animal bathing, and encroachment are contaminating water quality daily. Strong boundaries and strict enforcement must be implemented immediately.

Local authorities must now move beyond promises. Water is survival and these lakes deserve urgent, decisive action before another monsoon season is lost.

Experts point out that both Autadewadi and Wadachiwadi lakes once served as important natural reservoirs for the region. However, years of neglect, silt accumulation, encroachments and rapid urbanisation have significantly reduced their water-holding capacity and ecological value.

The proposed restoration plans include scientific desilting, removal of waste and encroachments, creation of recharge trenches and percolation pits, wetland development for natural water purification, and large-scale plantation of native tree species. Environmentalists have also recommended the creation of biodiversity zones, walking tracks and community stewardship programmes to ensure long-term conservation.

Residents say the revival of these lakes is not merely an environmental project but a necessity for the future of Undri-Mohammedwadi. With the area’s population expanding rapidly and water demand rising every year, many believe that restoring Autadewadi and Wadachiwadi lakes could become a model for urban water conservation and sustainable development in Pune.