Pune : PMC Warns of Action Against Use of Drinking Water For Construction Activities

Pune, 25th June 2026: With water demand rising and reservoir levels under pressure, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has decided to crack down on the misuse of potable water, warning that construction projects found using drinking water could face suspension of work.

Issuing the warning, City Engineer Aniruddha Pawaskar said the civic administration has intensified inspections to ensure that treated drinking water meant for domestic consumption is not diverted for non-essential purposes such as construction.

The move comes at a time when the city is witnessing increasing pressure on its water supply system due to declining water reserves in dams, a growing population and rising temperatures. Civic officials said extensive planning is undertaken to ensure adequate drinking water supply to residents, making it imperative to prevent wastage and misuse.

As part of the enforcement drive, deputy engineers and junior engineers from the construction department have been directed to conduct regular inspections of ongoing projects in their respective jurisdictions. If any construction site is found using potable water, officials have been instructed to issue immediate stop-work notices without any leniency.

PMC has also indicated that violations could invite administrative and penal action under relevant rules.

Apart from construction sites, the civic body will monitor vehicle washing centres, washing facilities and other establishments that consume large quantities of water. Authorities said action would be taken against entities found violating water-use regulations.

Officials stressed that drinking water should be reserved only for essential domestic needs, especially during periods of water scarcity. “Strict action will be taken against those using potable water for construction activities,” Pawaskar said.