Maharashtra: PCMC cuts water supply by 15 per cent as Pawna dam storage falls to 19 per cent

The water stock in Pawana Dam has dropped 19 per cent. PIC/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) on Friday announced a 15 per cent reduction in water supply across the city following a sharp decline in Pawna dam storage. According to PCMC officials, the water stock in Pawna Dam has dropped to just 19 per cent. Coupled with the delayed arrival of the monsoon, the situation has raised concerns over water availability in the coming weeks, making strict management of available resources necessary.

Pawna project

Dr Suryavanshi, commissioner, PCMC. PIC/X/@punekarnews

Amid growing concerns over future water security, PCMC has also decided to revive the long-pending Pawna Dam-to-Nigdi Pipeline Project. The project involves laying a nearly 35-km pipeline between Pawna Dam and Pimpri-Chinchwad to transport water through a closed conveyance system. The revised detailed project report has been prepared with a capacity of 750 MLD (million litres per day). The project has received technical approval from IIT Bombay and is estimated to cost Rs 894.67 crore. The project was halted in 2011.

Use water judiciously

PCMC Municipal Commissioner Dr Vijay Suryavanshi urged residents to cooperate amid restricted supply. "To ensure scientific management of available water stock, a 15 per cent reduction in supply has been implemented. Citizens should use water carefully and avoid unnecessary activities such as vehicle washing and excessive watering of gardens," Dr Suryavanshi said. Chief Engineer Pramod Ombhase said the reduction has been implemented in accordance with the instructions issued by the Department of Irrigation.

Limited water resources

High-level review meeting held on Thursday. PIC/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Over the past decade, Pimpri-Chinchwad has witnessed rapid population growth, but no major new water source has been developed to meet the increasing demand. Citing the need for equitable distribution of water. Civic officials believe completion of the Pawna Closed Pipeline Project will play a crucial role in addressing the city's long-term water requirements.