Pune Faces Water Shortage as Khadakwasla Dam Levels Drop Below Average
Pune, 16th May 2024: In Pune, the Khadakwasla Dam chain project, which supplies water to the city, currently holds a total of 6.70 TMC, or 23 %, of its water storage capacity. This marks a decrease of 2.30 TMC compared to the previous year, leaving only enough water to sustain the city for two months.
Last year, the Khadakwasla dam chain was nearly at full capacity due to below-average rainfall. However, retreating monsoon rains failed to fill the reservoir adequately, resulting in lower water levels this year.
Presently, the Temghar Dam stands empty, with only 4.99 %, equivalent to 0.19 TMC, of water remaining. In contrast, last year, the Khadakwasla chain project had 9 TMC, or 30.87 %, of water storage available. This year, the reserves have dwindled to 6.70 TMC, or 23 %.
Planning is imperative. Despite assurances from the Ministry of Water Resources (Maharashtra) and the Pune Municipal Administration that water reserves would suffice until 15th July, recent trends in rainfall patterns paint a different picture. Historically, monsoons arrive punctually, but subsequent rains are often delayed, exacerbating water shortages. Therefore, proactive water management planning is essential to address the impending crisis.
