Water To Be Released In Canal During Palkhi Processions in Pune

The Khadakwasla dam is set to release approximately 0.5 TMC (Thousand Million Cubic feet) of water into the canal to accommodate the upcoming palkhi processions arriving in Pune this weekend. According to an irrigation department official, this release will not impact the city’s water supply, ensuring Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) continues to receive its required daily water quota.

Next week, as the palkhi processions move towards rural areas like Haveli, Daund, and Indapur, additional water is expected to be released into the canal. Currently, the four dams within the Khadakwasla circle hold a live water storage of 3.4 TMC, with levels unchanged since June due to insufficient rainfall.

The decision to release water during the palkhi processions was carefully calculated, ensuring Pune’s water needs are met. Water discharge for rural areas has been halted as a precautionary measure, with existing dam water reserves allocated strictly for drinking purposes.

PMC typically draws 1.5 TMC of water monthly from Khadakwasla, though this demand may decrease with the onset of monsoon rains. A PMC official mentioned plans for a review meeting in early July to assess rainfall and dam water levels, potentially avoiding any need for water cuts if rainfall in catchment areas increases.

To support the palkhi processions, PMC will ensure adequate water tankers along their routes, with district administration also deploying additional water tankers as needed. The city anticipates better water supply conditions ahead, contingent upon favorable rainfall patterns in the coming days.