Pune Water Crisis: Undri Residents Queue with Buckets as Tanker Strike Hits Supply
Reported by Shoaib Tadvi
Undri, 15th April 2026: A sudden strike by private water tanker operators has triggered a severe water crisis across Mohammadwadi, Undri, NIBM, Pisoli and adjoining areas, leaving thousands of residents struggling for basic water supply. The disruption, which began without prior notice, has intensified public anger against both tanker operators and the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC).
Residents alleged that the strike was called abruptly, with tanker operators protesting against recent enforcement actions and penalties imposed by the Regional Transport Office (RTO). Tanker providers, however, rejected the label of “tanker mafia,” stating that they are essential service providers bridging the gap left by inadequate municipal infrastructure.
Residents caught off guard
Deepa Cheema, a resident of Nyati Estate in Mohammadwadi, expressed frustration over the lack of communication.
“Why do water tankers suddenly stop services? At least give us a two-day notice. We are already fighting with PMC for proper supply. Calling them tanker mafia is not entirely correct—this issue lies with PMC’s failure.”
In several housing societies, emergency rationing measures have been implemented.
Sushant, a resident of Ganga Fernhill Society, described the situation:
“Our water supply has been cut drastically. We are distributing water only during fixed hours—from 10 am to 5 pm. Tanker operators say their strike is against RTO penalties, not residents, but we are the ones suffering.”
Infrastructure gaps exposed
The crisis has once again highlighted long-pending infrastructure issues in the rapidly growing suburbs.
Raghu Ram, a resident of Nyati Evara Society, criticised civic authorities:
“Despite years of promises, critical infrastructure remains incomplete. This fragile system has collapsed. With tanker services suspended, entire communities are left without water. This shows the complete absence of contingency planning.”
He further outlined key demands to PMC, including completion of pending pipeline infrastructure, emergency water supply arrangements, transparent communication on timelines and accountability, and long-term solutions to reduce tanker dependency.
“Access to water is a fundamental right. Continued neglect of Undri and nearby areas is unacceptable. We will escalate protests if ignored,” he added.
Survival concerns rise
For many residents, the crisis has become a matter of basic survival. Rashmi Desai, a resident of Enclave Society, questioned the lack of alternatives:
“How are we supposed to survive without water? PMC has not provided pipeline connections, and now tankers are on strike. What are we expected to do?”
Growing tensions
The situation has led to a tense standoff between residents, tanker operators and authorities. While tanker operators cite financial pressure due to fines and regulatory action, residents argue that the absence of a reliable municipal water network has made them dependent on an unregulated system.
With no immediate resolution in sight, residents across the Mohammadwadi–Undri belt are preparing to intensify protests, demanding urgent intervention from PMC and state authorities.
