Pune: Despite assurances from the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) that the city's water supply is stable, residents in multiple areas are grappling with severe water shortages. Many localities are receiving low-pressure water, unpredictable supply timings, and inadequate distribution, causing distress among citizens.
Over the past few days, water supply has been disrupted across Pune, affecting areas such as Erandwane, Karvenagar, DP Road, Patwardhan Baug, Law College Road, Paud Phata, Bhandarkar Road, Janwadi, Gokhale Nagar, Model Colony, Wadarwadi, Shivajinagar, Dhayari, and Guruwar and Raviwar Peths.
Residents report that previously steady water supply with full pressure has now weakened, with the flow stopping 30 to 45 minutes earlier than scheduled. Housing societies are struggling as water tanks remain unfilled, worsening the shortage. Despite repeated complaints, the municipal administration has not restored normalcy.
Areas like Senapati Bapat Road, Wadarwadi, Janwadi, and Model Colony are receiving water at minimal pressure, often trickling down without sufficient force. Meanwhile, in Dhayari the issue has escalated to the extent that residents are relying on private water tankers, spending thousands of rupees daily to meet their needs.
With the onset of summer, water consumption has surged, putting additional strain on the supply system. Authorities state that in areas where supply is strong, prolonged consumption delays tank-filling. To manage city-wide distribution, water flow is redirected before these tanks reach full capacity.
This leads to stronger supply at the beginning of pipelines while end-line and high-altitude areas suffer weaker flow and delayed access, intensifying the crisis. If the situation persists through summer, Pune may face a severe water crisis by June.
Nandkishor Jagtap, Chief of the PMC Water Supply Department, acknowledged the issue, stating: "The increased demand due to rising temperatures has caused supply disruptions in some areas. We are closely monitoring the situation and making necessary adjustments to ensure a steady water supply."
However, BJP spokesperson Sandeep Khardekar criticized the administration for its inefficiency, particularly in Kothrud: "Residents of Kothrud have been struggling with erratic and insufficient water supply for over a week, yet the administration has failed to diagnose the issue. Complaints are pouring in daily."
