Pune: Police families residing in the 22-storeyed residential complex at Shivajinagar Police Headquarters have been struggling with a water crisis for the past two days after the electricity supply to the water pumps was disconnected due to unpaid bills.

The situation has caused severe inconvenience to residents, who are now demanding urgent intervention from the authorities to restore basic amenities.

The high-rise police quarters, named "Rajgad" and "Shivneri," were constructed four years ago as part of a modern housing initiative for police personnel. The buildings were equipped with separate electricity meters for essential services like water supply, lifts, and common area lighting, with the government responsible for covering these expenses through the Police Commissioner’s office.

However, since April 2024, the state government has not deposited funds for these expenses, leading to a ₹34 lakh outstanding bill. Consequently, MSEDCL disconnected the electricity to the water supply system, affecting hundreds of police families. Although ₹17 lakh has been paid by the Police Commissioner’s office, the remaining amount is yet to be cleared.

Residents, especially women and children, have been hit hardest by the water shortage, forcing families to carry water from the ground floor to their apartments. Given that police personnel work 24-hour shifts, the crisis has added to their struggles.

Adding to their concerns, residents fear that the situation could worsen in the coming days. Authorities have warned that if the dues are not cleared soon, the electricity supply to the lifts will also be disconnected. With the buildings standing 22 floors high, residents are questioning how they will manage daily commutes within the complex if the lifts stop functioning.

"The issue will be resolved soon as the government is set to clear the pending dues," assured Sandeep Bhajibhakare, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Shivajinagar Police Headquarters.