Pune: The onset of rain since the last week of June in the Pavana Dam area, which supplies water to Pimpri-Chinchwad, has led to an increase in water levels, temporarily averting the need for water cuts.
The city receives its water supply primarily from Pavana and Andra Dams in Maval. Pavana Dam is the main source of water for both the city and various villages in Maval Taluka.
Due to increasing complaints about water supply, the municipal administration implemented an alternate day water supply schedule starting from November 25, 2019. Despite four and a half years passing, residents still face this water supply schedule.
As of June 1, the Pavana Dam area has recorded 294 mm of rainfall, with the water storage level at 19.01 per cent, sufficient until July 20. Last year, the water storage level at the beginning of July was 20.16 per cent, with 423 mm of rainfall recorded. This year, 346 mm of rainfall has been recorded.
The weather department forecasts above-average rainfall across the state and the country in July, with an estimated 106% of the average rainfall expected nationwide.
Good rainfall is anticipated along the Konkan coast and in Central Maharashtra, which, if realized, could lift the looming threat of water cuts in the city. Pimpri-Chinchwad's water supply comes from Pavana and Andra Dams, with an alternate day schedule in place for the past four and a half years.
Considering the city's rapid population growth and future projections up to 2045, the municipal corporation plans to bring an additional 267 million liters per day (MLD) from Andra and Bhama Askhed Dams. A water purification plant has been established in Chikhali for processing this water.
Currently, water from Andra Dam is pumped from the Nigloje barrage to serve the integrated areas. However, municipal officials state that the growing population is resulting in water shortages and increasing complaints.
The municipal corporation draws 520 MLD from Pavana Dam, 80 MLD from Andra Dam, and 15 MLD from the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), totaling 615 MLD daily. There is sufficient water storage in the dams, and no water shortage is expected in July.
Given the rainfall forecast, there is no immediate need for water cuts. The decision on water cuts will be made based on the rainfall in July and the prevailing situation, stated Shekhar Singh, Commissioner, Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation.
