28 October,2026 02:38 PM IST | Thane | mid-day online correspondent
Representational Image. Pic/Pixabay
The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has restricted vehicle washing at service centres across the city, prohibiting the use of drinking water, borewell water and well water amid concerns over potential water shortages linked to the possible impact of El Nino.
The civic body issued the directive on Wednesday, October 28, urging residents and vehicle service centres to use water carefully and avoid unnecessary wastage. The restrictions apply to two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers and other vehicles.
Under the new restrictions, service centres and garages have been instructed not to use drinking water, borewell water or well water for vehicle washing. The use of pressure jets for cleaning vehicles has also been prohibited.
However, the civic body has clarified that cleaning vehicles with a wet cloth using water collected in a bucket will continue to be permitted. The measure is intended to reduce water consumption while allowing basic vehicle cleaning without excessive use of water.
The Water Supply Department has warned that service centres found violating the directives will face punitive action under the relevant provisions of the Maharashtra Municipal Corporations Act.
The restrictions come amid concerns that the possible impact of El Nino could lead to drought-like conditions and put pressure on available water resources. The civic administration has urged residents to adopt responsible water-use practices to help prevent shortages.
According to a government resolution, measures are being taken to secure drinking water supplies through planned management of available resources until August 31, 2027. The Thane civic body has introduced the restrictions on vehicle washing as part of these broader water conservation efforts.
The Thane Municipal Corporation has appealed to residents to cooperate with the administration and avoid using drinking water for activities that can be carried out with smaller quantities of water.
The civic body has stressed the need to make the best use of available supplies, particularly as preparations are being made to manage water resources over the coming months.
Residents have also been encouraged to avoid unnecessary water consumption in their daily activities and adopt practices that reduce wastage. The administration's appeal extends to vehicle owners, garages and service centres, which have been asked to comply with the restrictions.
The Water Supply Department said the measures are aimed at conserving available water and maintaining drinking water availability amid concerns about possible shortages. The civic body has indicated that compliance with the restrictions will be important in ensuring that water resources are used responsibly across the city.
