Uncertainty Over Water Allocation for Pune Amid Growing Demand

Pune, November 28, 2024: Despite adequate water storage in the reservoirs of the Khadakwasla Project, Pune’s water allocation for the coming year remains uncertain. The Water Resources Department has not yet finalised the allocation, with discussions expected to take place during a canal advisory committee meeting. This meeting, chaired by the district’s Guardian Minister, is anticipated after the formation of the new state cabinet following the recent Assembly Elections.

Pune relies on water from the Khadakwasla, Temghar, Varasgaon, and Panshet dams, along with the Bhama Askhed dam, to meet its annual demand of approximately 21 TMC (thousand million cubic feet). As of September, the reservoirs were at full capacity, and the Khadakwasla Project currently holds 27.27 TMC of water—93.55% of its total capacity—indicating no immediate threat of a shortage.

Traditionally, the annual water allocation for the Khadakwasla Project is finalised by October 15 after discussions at the canal advisory committee meeting. This meeting decides the distribution of water for agricultural and municipal needs. However, this year’s meeting has been delayed due to the state elections. The Water Resources Department has written to the Chief Secretary for direction but has yet to receive a response.

The pending allocation decision is critical for Pune and other regions in Western Maharashtra. Adding to the uncertainty is the growing demand for water driven by Pune’s expanding population, which now includes several newly added villages. The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has consistently requested an increase in its water quota, submitting a proposal for 21 TMC based on a population of 7.6 million.

Currently, Pune’s official entitlement is 11.60 TMC, but the Water Resources Department has temporarily allocated 14.61 TMC to address the city’s growing needs. A decision on the PMC’s formal request for 21 TMC will only be finalised once the State Government approves it.

The political uncertainty following the elections has further delayed this critical decision, leaving Pune residents and civic authorities in limbo as they prepare for the year ahead.