Pune Water Cut: PMC Awaits State Order Before Deciding Weekly Supply Shutdown

Pune PMC is awaiting the Maharashtra government’s written order before deciding the city’s water-cut schedule, including a possible weekly shutdown.

Pune: Pune residents may face water supply restrictions from October 16, but the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has not yet finalised the city’s water-cut schedule. The civic body is waiting for the Maharashtra government’s written directive before deciding the extent and frequency of the proposed cuts.

The Maharashtra government has directed urban and rural local bodies across the state to implement a minimum 10% reduction in water use from October 16, citing concerns over water availability, lower rainfall and the possible impact of El Nino.

For Pune, PMC officials have indicated that a one-day water supply shutdown every week could be considered as one way of meeting the conservation target. However, this is currently a preparedness measure and not a final decision. PMC water supply department head Nandkishor Jagtap said the civic body would determine the frequency and extent of the restrictions after receiving the state’s written order.

Officials are also assessing the city’s water requirement for the coming months. Although Pune’s four major reservoirs—Khadakwasla, Panshet, Varasgaon and Temghar—have substantial stocks, their combined storage is lower than the corresponding period last year. Authorities are therefore focusing on conservation and careful allocation of the available water.

Pune’s annual water requirement is estimated at around 18–20 TMC, while the city would need roughly 14–15 TMC through June 2027, assuming the next monsoon arrives around that period. PMC is also seeking clarity from the Water Resources Department regarding water allocation for the city and surrounding rural areas.

The civic body has previously considered early conservation measures to avoid a repeat of severe summer shortages. A weekly shutdown, if ultimately approved, could help preserve water stocks for the later summer months. According to PMC officials, a one-day shutdown each week could potentially save a significant quantity of the city’s annual allocation.

The state directive also calls for greater water conservation by industries, including reuse or recycling of at least 30% of their water consumption. Irrigation use is to be prioritised only after essential requirements such as drinking water and livestock needs are addressed.

For now, Pune’s regular water supply continues, and residents should not assume that a specific weekly shutdown day has already been announced. PMC is expected to take a decision within about a week of receiving the government’s formal communication.

The final schedule, if restrictions are introduced, will depend on the state directive, available reservoir stocks, Pune’s water requirement and discussions between PMC and the Water Resources Department.

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