Pune: Leakage Prevention vs Water Conservation; PMC’s Priorities Questioned Amidst Water Shortage

Pune, 16th April 2023: The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a decrease in monsoon rains this year due to El Niño. In response, government agencies are taking steps to plan for proper water management.

The Khadakwasla dam chain project, which supplies water to the city, is rapidly depleting its storage. To address this, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and Irrigation Department will hold a meeting on Tuesday (18th April) to plan for water usage until 31st August. The discussion will focus on how to allocate water efficiently during this period.

The PMC has already requested 7.94 TMC of water from the Irrigation Department to ensure water supply until the end of August. However, the amount of usable water storage in the Khadakwasla dam chain project, which is currently at 12.50 TMC, may not be sufficient if the IMD’s predictions about reduced rainfall come true.

In previous years, the available water in the dam was reserved only until 15th July, as rains usually start in July in the Khadakwasla dam chain. However, this year’s predicted decrease in rainfall during July and August means that the city could face severe water shortages. The government has therefore ordered the Municipal Corporation and the Irrigation Department to plan for available water and reduce water consumption.

While the municipality is responsible for planning drinking water, there are several other factors contributing to water depletion. The PMC needs to take steps to prevent the use of water for construction, cleaning work in hotels and commercial places, and selling drinking water by tankers. Additionally, water theft for municipal works, as well as drinking water used in washing centers, toilets, parks, and government offices due to leaking taps, must be addressed.

Although it is essential to save water, the municipality is currently focusing on preventing leakage of major water channels in the city. However, when leaks are discovered on the other side, the PMC is hesitant to cut water supply for additional days, even during festivals and celebrations. As a result, large amounts of drinking water are being used for unnecessary purposes, and the Municipal Corporation’s response to this issue is lacking.

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