Pune Water Crisis: PMC Identifies Sewage Contamination in Multiple Localities

Pune, 20th June 2026: A survey conducted by the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) following complaints of low water pressure, reduced supply duration, and contaminated drinking water has found instances of sewage mixing with drinking water pipelines in several parts of the city.

According to civic officials, the survey identified cases of sewage contamination in parts of Kondhwa, Shivnerinagar, Bhagyodayanagar, Hadapsar, Santosh Nagar, and Anjaninagar in Katraj. The findings have raised concerns about the condition of the city’s ageing water supply and drainage infrastructure.

Preliminary investigations revealed that water supply and drainage networks in several old and densely populated localities have deteriorated significantly over the years. In response, the Municipal Commissioner has directed the concerned departments to undertake immediate corrective measures.

Nandkishor Jagtap, head of the Water Supply Department, said complaints of inadequate water pressure and contaminated water flowing through taps have been increasing, particularly in Dattawadi and Rajendranagar. Technical teams have been instructed to take urgent action to address the issues in these areas.

Officials said several incomplete works under the city’s Equal Water Supply Scheme will be prioritised and completed at the earliest.

Investigations found that, in many locations, drinking water pipelines and drainage lines have been laid too close to each other or at the same level. Leakage from drainage pipelines, coupled with corrosion in ageing water pipelines, has allowed sewage to enter the drinking water network at certain points.

The problem has been exacerbated by narrow roads, unplanned urban development, and a lack of space, forcing utility lines to pass through or near drainage chambers in several localities.

PMC had earlier sanctioned ₹20 crore for measures aimed at addressing these infrastructure issues. However, fresh complaints from residents indicate that the problems persist in some areas.

Jagtap said the administration has now directed officials to complete pending works on priority and expedite repairs to prevent further contamination of drinking water supplies.