22 April,2026 07:18 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Representational Image. Pic/Pixabay
Water levels across Maharashtra's dams are higher than last year, offering a measure of relief ahead of the summer months. However, the state government has urged caution, warning that the potential impact of El Nino could disrupt rainfall patterns and strain supplies in the coming months.
Data presented at a state cabinet meeting on Wednesday showed that total water storage in dams currently stands at 653.63 TMC (Thousand Million Cubic Feet). This is an increase of 101.77 TMC compared to the same period last year, when storage levels were recorded at 551.86 TMC.
Despite the improved figures, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis called for judicious use of water, citing the likelihood of irregular or below-normal rainfall due to El Niño conditions.
A detailed presentation by Additional Chief Secretary (Water Resources) Deepak Kapoor highlighted historical trends linked to El Nino years. Officials noted that water storage declined by around 12 percent in 2014 and nearly 14 percent in 2015, both years marked by significant water shortages.
On October 15, 2014, total water storage was recorded at 872 TMC, which dropped sharply to 625 TMC on the same date in 2015. In contrast, storage levels were significantly higher on October 15, 2025, at 1,330.97 TMC, indicating a stronger reserve entering the current cycle.
As of April 21, 2026, the state's current storage of 653.63 TMC reflects a relatively stable position, though officials cautioned that the coming monsoon will be critical.
The Chief Minister has directed departments to implement stricter planning and monitoring of water usage across regions. The focus is on ensuring adequate drinking water supply at least until August 2026, a period that could see stress if rainfall remains inconsistent.
Authorities have also been asked to step up conservation efforts, including regulating non-essential usage and improving distribution efficiency. Citizens have been urged to begin conserving water immediately as a precautionary measure.
Region-wise data indicates that most parts of the state have recorded higher water storage compared to last year, though variations remain.
The Pune region, which has the highest number of dams, reported storage of 206.55 TMC, up from 174.04 TMC last year. Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar region also saw a significant rise to 129.37 TMC from 97.09 TMC.
Similarly, Nashik recorded 101.96 TMC (89.28 TMC last year), while Nagpur and Amravati regions stood at 80.79 TMC and 73.72 TMC respectively, both showing moderate increases.
The Konkan region was the only exception, with storage slightly lower at 61.24 TMC compared to 62.92 TMC last year.
Among key reservoirs, Jayakwadi and Ujani dams showed notable improvements, with Ujani reporting storage where there was none last year. Gosikhurd also recorded a significant increase.
However, some dams such as Koyna, Mula and Bhandardara showed a marginal decline in water levels compared to the previous year, indicating uneven distribution across the state's water infrastructure.
While the current storage position provides a buffer, officials stressed that the outlook remains dependent on monsoon performance. With El Nino expected to influence rainfall patterns, the state government appears to be taking a precautionary approach.
The administration's message remains clear: higher reserves offer temporary relief, but sustained availability will depend on careful management and public cooperation in conserving water.
