Pune: Recognized as an educational and industrial hub, Pune is facing increasing challenges related to its water supply due to its growing population and expanding suburban areas. Deputy Chief Minister and Water Resources Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, assured that the state government is working on creating new water sources to ensure that Pune does not face water shortages under any circumstances.
In response to an urgent notice by member Ravindra Dhangekar, Fadnavis emphasized the government's commitment to completing the 'Equal Water Distribution Scheme' to ensure fair water distribution across the city. Efforts are underway to prevent water leakage and provide adequate water supply to Pune.
Addressing the legislative council, Fadnavis highlighted various initiatives to meet Pune's future water needs. This includes the construction of a tunnel from Khadakwasla to Fursungi, which will provide an additional 2 TMC of water.
Renovations of the Khadakwasla canal are expected to yield 1.25 TMC, and other measures, including the renewal of the old Mutha canal, aim to secure 5 TMC of water. Additionally, under the river improvement scheme, work on Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) is in progress to facilitate water reuse.
Water Usage in Pune Exceeds Provisions
Fadnavis noted that industries within a 50-kilometer radius of STPs are mandated to use recycled water. Developers are required to ensure water supply to residential complexes at their own expense until municipal water services begin.
The water provision for Pune, including the newly integrated 23 villages with a population of 7.2 million, is 11.7 TMC, with an approved allocation of 14.61 TMC. However, the actual water usage is 20.87 TMC, indicating significant water leakage.
Reducing Water Leakage from 40 to 20 per cent
The Equal Water Distribution Scheme aims to reduce water leakage from 40 per cent to 20 per cent. Currently, 40 per cent of the zones under this scheme have been completed, which is expected to save 4 TMC of water out of the 20 TMC used, according to Fadnavis.
Action According to Tribunal Decisions: Fadnavis
During the monsoon session, MLAs Madhuri Misal and Ravindra Dhangekar raised concerns about Pune's water issues. In response, Fadnavis mentioned that fines have been imposed for excessive water use, though they have not been collected previously.
Action regarding the use of 5 TMC of water from Mulshi Dam will be taken following tribunal decisions. Fadnavis also directed immediate surveys by the municipal corporation and irrigation department to explore the feasibility of utilizing 0.5 TMC of water from Bhilarewadi and Katraj.