Pune officials implement emergency water management plan

To combat potential water shortages and limited reservoir levels, Pune authorities are implementing a comprehensive water management strategy. Deputy Chief Minister and Pune Guardian Minister Sunetravahini Ajitdada Pawar has directed officials to prioritize drinking water while ensuring adequate planning for agriculture and livestock.

Mayor Manjusha Nagpure has ordered the establishment of independent 'Water Scarcity and Disaster Control Rooms' across all 15 regional offices of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). These control rooms will operate 24/7 with staff from the water supply, health, and disaster management departments to resolve citizen complaints within 24 hours via dedicated helplines and WhatsApp.

The administration is tasked with creating a phased distribution plan to ensure equitable supply to all areas, including those at the periphery of the city. To prevent waste, special teams will be deployed to detect and repair leakages in main pipelines and tanks. Authorities have also been instructed to take action against illegal connections and commercial water theft. Additionally, the use of drinking water for washing vehicles, swimming pools, and lawns is prohibited. The PMC is also working on a plan to secure 13 TMC of water for the city's supply.