Mumbai’s Water Stock Dwindles, No Immediate Water Cuts Planned by Civic Body

Mumbai, 8th May 2024: In Mumbai, despite the water stock in seven lakes dwindling to 16.48%, there are currently no plans by the civic body to implement water cuts in the city. Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani assured residents that the additional water stock of 2.28 lakh million litres (ML), allocated by the state government, will adequately meet the city’s water needs until July 31.

With only 2.38 lakh ML remaining in the seven lakes out of the required annual quantum of 14.5 lakh ML, the situation is dire compared to previous years, with 3.22 lakh ML in 2023 and 3.73 lakh ML in 2022. To address this, Gagrani convened a review meeting with key officials to formulate an action plan.

According to a senior civic official, the Indian Meteorological Department’s forecast suggests favorable conditions for the timely onset of the monsoon, expected to be above normal with estimates indicating up to 106%. Regular reviews of the forecast and water stock status will inform any future policy adjustments.

Despite the additional water stock, Gagrani emphasized the importance of water conservation and urged citizens to use water judiciously. He called upon commercial and industrial establishments to adopt water-saving practices. Last year, the BMC tapped into reserve water from Upper Vaitarna Lake until other lake catchment areas received substantial rainfall in July. A temporary 10% water cut was also imposed, later lifted by August 9. The seven lakes collectively supply 3,900 million litres of water daily to the city.

To promote water conservation, the BMC issued the following tips:

– Turn off taps while brushing teeth and shaving.
– Opt for bucket baths instead of showers.
– Use a wet cloth for cleaning vehicles, floors, galleries, and steps.
– Promptly fix leaking taps and pipelines in homes, societies, or offices.