Pune’s Bhatghar Dam Reaches Dead Storage Level, Triggers Severe Water Crisis
Pune, 20th May 2025: The Bhatghar Dam, a vital water source in Pune’s Nira Valley, has reached dead storage level with only 8% water remaining, triggering a severe water crisis in several regions reliant on it for irrigation and drinking water.
Continuous discharge over the past three months, combined with rising summer demand and minimal inflow, has drastically depleted the reservoir. Built during the British era, the dam supplies water to talukas including Bhor, Khandala, Purandar, Baramati, Indapur, and Phaltan in Pune district, as well as parts of Solapur.
Local residents are reporting drying wells and increasing hardship. “Our village wells have dried up. If there’s no water in the dam, how are we supposed to farm?” said a concerned farmer. Many villagers have been forced to travel long distances to access drinking water.
Agriculture in the region now faces significant risks, with experts warning of potential crop failures if the monsoon is delayed. Both the upcoming kharif and rabi seasons are under threat due to limited irrigation supply.
With just 8% of usable water remaining, citizens and activists are urging the administration to enforce strict water management measures, including regulated usage, groundwater monitoring, and efficient irrigation practices.
Experts also stress the need for long-term solutions such as watershed development, rainwater harvesting, and revival of local water bodies to build resilience against recurring droughts.
