Pune: As the demand for water in Pune continues to grow, the city’s municipal corporation has been awaiting approval from the state government for an additional allocation of 5 TMC water from Mulshi Dam. The proposal has been under consideration since August 2021.
Furthermore, Pimpri-Chinchwad's future expansion and increasing water needs have led to calls for Mulshi Dam to supply water to this city as well. Additionally, rural regions such as Daund and Indapur have made irrigation-related demands, making water allocation from the 18.5 TMC capacity dam a complex issue for the state government.
Growing Demand for Additional Water Supply
Currently, Pune city largely relies on Khadakwasla Dam, which has a capacity of 29 TMC. However, with an increasing population and rising annual water demand, the pressure on this dam is growing. It also supplies irrigation water to Pune district, requiring a balance between agricultural and domestic needs.
The Irrigation Department has already warned the municipal corporation about potential water cuts to regulate consumption. However, with demand only set to rise, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) passed a resolution in August 2021 to seek 5 TMC water from Mulshi Dam. The proposal was sent to the state government but remains pending.
Risk of Severe Water Crisis If Decision Delayed
Even if the government approves the 5 TMC allocation, Pune will not receive immediate relief. Setting up the necessary infrastructure—including pipelines, a water purification plant, and a jack well—will take two to three years. With growing restrictions on Khadakwasla Dam and inadequate supply to newly merged villages, the sooner Pune gains access to Mulshi’s water, the better. Otherwise, the city may face a severe water shortage.
Pimpri-Chinchwad's Request for Mulshi Water
Pimpri-Chinchwad currently receives its water supply from three reservoirs: Pavana, Bhama Askhed, and Andra. However, the city remains highly dependent on Pavana Dam, while the Bhama Askhed pipeline project remains incomplete. This has resulted in water being supplied on an alternate-day basis. Considering these limitations, local representatives have demanded that Pimpri-Chinchwad also receive a share of Mulshi Dam’s water. A discussion regarding this is expected to take place with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis during the ongoing legislative session.
Water Demand from Rural Areas
The increasing dependency of Pune city on Khadakwasla Dam has affected irrigation water supply to Daund and Indapur. Recognizing the need for long-term water security, representatives from these regions have urged the government to reserve a portion of Mulshi’s water for agricultural and village use.
Proposal to Increase Mulshi Dam's Storage Capacity
With the population of Pune and the PMRDA region continuing to grow, long-term planning for water resources is essential. Officials have proposed raising Mulshi Dam’s height by one meter, which could increase its capacity beyond 20 TMC.
