Pune: Due to a severe lack of rainfall, reservoirs in Pune district have reached critically low levels, with the Khadakwasla Cluster - comprising of Temghar, Varasgaon, Panshet and Khadakwasla dam - a primary water source for Pune, holding only 3.58 TMC of water.
Authorities have stressed the need for judicious water use, especially with the city set to host millions of devotees for the Palkhi procession at the month's end. A decision on water cuts is likely to be announced after the procession departs from Pune, according to the administration.
The uneven water supply across the city has resulted in low pressure and inadequate distribution in many areas. There are also accusations from residents that the municipality is conducting unofficial water cuts. The administration is making efforts to stabilize the water supply in the most affected regions.
As June ends, Pune and the catchment area of the Khadakwasla Cluster have yet to receive significant rainfall. The dam currently holds 3.58 TMC of water, while Pune city requires 0.05 TMC (1470 MLD) daily, totaling 1.50 TMC per month.
Moreover, the Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj and Sant Tukaram Maharaj Palkhi processions, which will pass through Pune at the end of the month, will require 0.5 TMC of water to be released from the canal.
Municipal Commissioner discussions with the Palkhi procession officials will occur before their arrival in Pune to plan water supply logistics. Nandkishor Jagtap, head of the water supply department, indicated that water cuts might be enforced once the procession has moved on.
The lack of rain in the ghats throughout June has left reservoirs unreplenished. However, the meteorological department predicts heavy rainfall in the ghats over the coming days. Should this forecasted rainfall materialize and raise water levels, the municipality may avoid the need for water cuts.
