Pune Uses 8 TMC More Water Than Allotted; Task Force Formed to Investigate Overuse, Leakages and Encroachments
Pune, 28th July 2025: Pune city has been consuming an excess of 8 TMC (thousand million cubic feet) of water annually beyond its sanctioned quota, prompting the state Water Resources Department to form a special task force to investigate the overuse, leakages, and low levels of water recycling. This was announced by Maharashtra Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil during a high-level meeting held at the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) on Saturday.
As per government records, the state has sanctioned 14 TMC of water for Pune. However, the city currently uses about 22 TMC, far exceeding the approved allocation. Minister Vikhe Patil expressed concern that this surplus consumption is affecting irrigation needs in other parts of the state, particularly in agricultural zones like Daund, Indapur, and Purandar, which rely on the same water resources.
“Based on the data collected, Pune is using significantly more water than permitted. This has a direct impact on farming in the downstream areas. Our assessment shows that if the city follows the population-based norms, it should be using only 14 TMC. The extra 8 TMC is a result of multiple factors, including water leakages and inefficient recycling,” Vikhe Patil said.
Currently, the PMC recycles only 30% of its used water, whereas it is mandated to recycle 80% and release the treated water into riverbeds for irrigation purposes.
The meeting chaired by Vikhe Patil at the PMC headquarters was attended by local MLAs, the municipal commissioner, and senior officials. The minister emphasized that immediate steps are required to address the wastage and ensure equitable distribution.
The newly formed task force will conduct comprehensive surveys to identify areas of leakage, excessive usage, and explore ways to boost water recycling. Additionally, action will be taken to remove encroachments around dam catchment areas, which are further impacting water management.
“This is a matter of serious concern. Around 40,000 hectares of agricultural land are suffering due to inadequate irrigation. The task force will not only review the technical and operational shortcomings but also take corrective measures on a war footing,” Vikhe Patil added.
The state government’s move comes amid growing concerns over water scarcity and rising tensions between urban consumption and rural agricultural needs.
