Mumbai: Facing a significant shortage in its water reserves, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) announced a 5 percent water cut starting May 30, escalating to a 10 percent cut from June 5. This measure is a response to the critical situation where only 10 percent of the usable water stock remains in the reservoirs that supply Mumbai.
This decision also impacts the Thane Municipal Corporation and the Bhiwandi Nizampura Municipal Corporations, according to BMC's statement on Saturday. As of May 25, the dams supplying water to Mumbai hold 1,40,202 million liters, which accounts for just 9.69 percent of the annual requirement of 14,47,363 million liters.
Earlier, on May 7, BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani had assured that the city’s water stock was sufficient, with supply management strategies in place to last until July 31. The administration emphasized it is closely monitoring the water levels and managing daily distribution efficiently.
The BMC stated that the water restrictions would stay until substantial rainfall replenishes the water bodies. "There is no need for Mumbaikars to panic. Nonetheless, the BMC administration earnestly requests all citizens to use water judiciously," said a BMC Official.
The civic body recommended practical measures to conserve water, such as using washing machines for laundry and opting for bucket baths over showers. Restaurants have been advised to serve water only upon request. The insufficient rainfall in October 2023, compared to the more active monsoons in 2021 and 2022, resulted in a 5.64 percent lower water stock than previous years.
To mitigate the shortfall, Mumbai will receive additional water supplies from the Bhatsa and Upper Vaitarna dams. The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has also forecasted an on-schedule monsoon this year, offering some hope for relief.
