Mumbai Faces Water Crisis as Dam Levels Drop
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced stringent water conservation measures as water levels in the dams supplying Mumbai have fallen sharply. The delay in monsoon due to the El Nino effect has exacerbated the situation, prompting the civic body to take precautionary steps to ensure the available water stock lasts longer.
10% Water Cut Already in Effect
Since May 15, a 10% water cut has been implemented across Mumbai. Starting Wednesday, June 17, additional restrictions on non-drinking water usage will come into force, as per an official release from the BMC.
Restrictions on Construction Sites and Swimming Pools
Water connections for all construction sites will be temporarily disconnected, and the granting of new water connections for construction projects has been suspended. Similarly, water connections for all swimming pools will also be temporarily disconnected. A 20% water cut has been enforced for industrial, commercial, and sports club establishments.
Strict Enforcement and Penalties
The BMC administration has warned that these measures will be strictly enforced. Stern action will be taken against anyone found misusing or wasting the drinking water supplied by the BMC. The civic body has urged citizens and establishments to cooperate and conserve water.
Current Water Supply and Demand
Mumbai city and its suburbs require approximately 4,664 million litres per day (MLD) of water. However, the average supply is only 4,100 MLD. As of June 16, the available water stock in the dams stands at a mere 10.35%. With the monsoon delayed, the BMC faces the challenge of stretching this limited supply.
Advisory for Alternative Water Sources
Organisations managing public toilets and sanitation facilities have been advised to maximise the use of tanker or borewell water. For purposes other than drinking, reliance on wells and borewells is encouraged, including for vehicle washing, watering plants in parks, and cleaning roads or premises.
The BMC has reiterated that any violation of the water conservation measures will attract strict action. The corporation appeals to all Mumbaikars to use water judiciously and support the efforts to tide over the crisis.
