250 Housing Societies Raise Alarm Over Water Shortage in Pune Suburbs

Pune, 4th September 2025: A meeting of the Water Committee, constituted under directions of the Bombay High Court in Public Interest Litigation (PIL) 126/2023, was held at the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) on Wednesday to address growing concerns of water scarcity across several city suburbs.

The meeting, chaired by PMC Additional Commissioner, was attended by senior officers of the Water Supply Department along with representatives from nearly 250 housing societies from Lohgaon, Wagholi, Manjari Budruk, Hadapsar, Mundhwa-Keshavnagar, Kharadi, and nearby areas. Despite satisfactory rainfall this year, societies complained that water shortages remain severe even during the monsoon season.

Large housing complexes from Keshavnagar, Mundhwa reported spending substantial amounts on private tanker water. Residents alleged that the builder has failed to provide water despite giving an affidavit to PMC at the time of obtaining commencement certificates. These certificates specifically require builders to supply water at their own expense until PMC can provide a permanent supply.

Society representatives said builders have stopped tanker supply during festivals, forcing residents to approach the police. However, complaints were reportedly not entertained, despite a decision at the Divisional Commissioner’s level permitting police action in such cases.

Advocate Satya Muley, speaking on behalf of residents’ associations, demanded strict action against defaulting builders. “PMC must take a firm stand against builders who are violating their commitments. Clear letters should be issued to housing societies so that the police can register their complaints and legal action can be initiated,” Muley said.

Residents of Majestic Rhythm in Handewadi, a township with nearly 5,000 units, stated that they do not receive drinking water at all. Societies from Wagholi and Kharadi also shared similar grievances.

PMC officials informed the gathering that an overhead water tank in Kharadi is nearing completion and is expected to provide significant relief to the region once operational.

Advocate Muley further appealed to residents’ associations to continue attending such review meetings. “Regular participation will help track the progress of grievances and ensure accountability from the authorities,” he added.