Pune, 23rd June 2026: Although the southwest monsoon officially arrived on Monday, as per the forecast, this year rainfall activity will remain weak. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert for light rain until June 26, while forecasts suggest that significant rainfall is unlikely before the end of the month.
Amid the delayed and weak monsoon forecast, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has decided to continue its alternate-day water supply system for at least the next three months.
Municipal Commissioner Naval Kishore Ram informed the PMC general body that the city currently has no alternative due to limited water availability and uncertain rainfall prospects.
The commissioner said the Khadakwasla dam system presently holds only 3.88 TMC of water. Before water rationing was introduced, Pune consumed around 1.60 TMC of water every month. Following the implementation of alternate-day supply, monthly consumption has dropped to nearly 1.20 TMC, allowing the available stock to last for about three months.
Ram acknowledged that several areas are experiencing low water pressure because of air pockets in pipelines. He said officials have been instructed to resolve such complaints on priority. To strengthen emergency arrangements, PMC is also developing three new tanker filling stations across the city.
The civic body is meanwhile working on a solution for Wagholi, where falling water levels in the Bhima River have affected supply from the regional water scheme. PMC plans to connect the scheme to the Army Water Centre pipeline and install temporary water tanks at 30 to 40 locations to ensure uninterrupted water availability.
During the meeting, city representatives raised concerns over water shortages and leakages in several areas. The administration was directed to take immediate action on complaints and accelerate rainwater harvesting initiatives to improve Pune’s long-term water security.
