Pune: As Pune’s population and urban expansion continue to grow, the city’s water allocation has not been increased to meet rising demands. Despite repeated requests over the years to sanction an additional five TMC of water from Mulshi Dam, the approval is yet to be granted. With water shortages looming, local legislators are being urged to take a firm stand on the issue. Otherwise, Pune residents may have to resort to protests for their water rights, akin to a "Mulshi Satyagraha."
Current Water Allocation & Rising Demand
For 2024-25, the Irrigation Department has sanctioned a total of 14.61 TMC of water for Pune from three reservoirs:
11.6 TMC from Khadakwasla Dam
2.67 TMC from Bhama Askhed Dam
0.34 TMC from Pavana Dam
However, given Pune’s expanding boundaries and increasing construction activity, this allocation falls short of the city’s needs. Currently, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) draws 1,637 MLD of water daily, translating to an annual consumption of 21.48 TMC.
Challenges with Khadakwasla Dependency
Pune heavily relies on Khadakwasla Dam, which has a 29 TMC capacity. This reservoir not only supplies drinking water to Pune but also provides irrigation water to farmlands in Pune district. As a result, the Irrigation Department frequently pressures PMC to reduce water usage. However, with increasing summer water demand, imposing water cuts would be unrealistic and difficult.
Long-Pending Decision on Mulshi Water Allocation
In August 2021, the PMC passed a resolution requesting the state government to allocate five TMC of water from Mulshi Dam. Over the past few years, MLAs and ministers have repeatedly assured that meetings would be held to approve the request. However, no final decision has been made so far.
Infrastructure Requirements and Urgency
Even if the government approves the additional water allocation today, it would take at least two to three years to complete key infrastructure projects, such as:
Laying a pipeline from Mulshi Dam to Pune
Constructing water treatment plants
Building intake wells (Jackwells)
With Khadakwasla’s water supply facing limitations, and many newly merged villages struggling to get enough water, securing Mulshi’s water at the earliest is critical. Without it, Pune could face a severe water crisis.
Water Crisis in Merged Villages
The 32 villages merged into PMC require 321 MLD of water daily, but PMC currently supplies only 100 MLD. Large-scale water infrastructure projects are expected to take 5–6 years for completion, by which time the demand will have further increased.
Projected Water Demand in Pune
Year - Daily Demand (MLD) - Annual Demand (TMC)
2024 - 1637.90 - 21.47
2037 - 2023.59 - 26.08
2052 - 2592.38 - 33.42
