Water Levels Dip in Pune Dams, Concerns Rise Over Future Supply

Pune, March 27, 2024 – The quartet of dams supplying water to Pune currently stands at only 45.90 per cent of their storage capacity, equivalent to 13.38 TMC (Thousand Million Cubic feet), signalling a worrisome decrease from last year’s level of 54.17 per cent, which held 15.80 TMC.

“This situation rings alarm bells for potential water shortages in Pune,” expressed a concerned official.

Despite these concerns, District Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar advised against water cuts for Pune city during a recent meeting of Pune Municipal Corporation officials. Instead, he emphasized addressing water supply complaints in areas facing low-pressure supply.

Official records indicate Khadakwasla reservoir at 54.39 per cent, holding 1.07 TMC, Panshet at 48.10 per cent with 5.12 TMC, Temghar at 9.11 per cent with 0.34 TMC, and Warasgaon at 53.40 per cent with 6.85 TMC.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Supriya Sule criticized the government for overlooking the drought-like situation in Maharashtra.  “Those in power are busy making trips,” she lamented, stressing the need for action on drought management. Due to the worsening situation, she emphasized the need for fodder camps and water tankers in Baramati and throughout Maharashtra.