Pune, 22nd May 2026: Punekars may soon face a serious water shortage as the total water stock in the Khadakwasla dam chain project has fallen to nearly 7.5 TMC.
The four dams supplying water to the city, Khadakwasla, Panshet, Temghar and Varasgaon, currently hold only about 25 percent of their total capacity, raising concerns over water availability in the coming weeks.
Among the reservoirs, Temghar Dam has completely dried up, adding pressure on Pune’s water supply system. Khadakwasla Dam currently stands at 58 percent storage, while Panshet has 31 percent and Varasgaon holds 23 percent water stock.
With reservoir levels declining rapidly, the Irrigation Department has decided to impose restrictions on canal water released for agriculture in Daund, Indapur and Baramati after May 30. Officials fear that if rainfall remains below normal this year, both Pune city and nearby rural areas could face severe water scarcity.
The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) and the Irrigation Department have appealed to citizens to use water carefully and avoid wastage. Experts have stressed the need for strict water management, balanced distribution for drinking and irrigation purposes, and long-term planning to handle possible shortages during the monsoon delay period.
Authorities believe that public awareness and water conservation at every level will be crucial in preventing a deeper crisis in the coming months.