The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) is likely to order the closure of swimming pools and vehicle washing centres starting June 25 if water levels in the dams do not improve, civic officials said on Tuesday. This proposed measure is part of a series of water-conservation steps being considered as the monsoon remains delayed and reservoir levels continue to fall.
Stricter Measures on the Horizon
"If there is no significant rainfall soon and dam levels do not improve, stricter measures, including the closure of swimming pools and vehicle washing centres, may be announced on June 25," a senior PCMC official stated. The administration has already issued an advisory urging residents to use water judiciously and avoid using potable water for non-essential activities.
Officials clarified that the corporation is not immediately considering extending the existing alternate-day water supply system. "A reduction in the volume of water supplied remains an option if reservoir levels continue to decline," the official added.
Current Water Stock Situation
According to the water supply department, the Pavana dam, which is the primary source of drinking water for Pimpri Chinchwad, holds about 20% live storage. The Andra dam has around 30% live storage. The combined water stock in both reservoirs is approximately 5% lower than the level recorded on the corresponding day last year. "The available stock can last till early August, provided conservation measures are implemented effectively," another civic official said.
Civic Chief and Mayor's Appeal
Mayor Ravi Landge had last week written to PCMC Commissioner Vijay Suryawanshi, urging immediate action to curb non-essential water usage. "The delayed onset of monsoon could put additional pressure on available water resources," Suryawanshi said, calling for collective efforts to conserve water. Landge also appealed to residents to adopt water-saving habits and actively participate in water conservation and rainwater harvesting initiatives.
Advisory for Commercial Establishments
Commercial vehicle washing centres have been advised to use water recycling systems, while swimming pool operators have been asked to avoid refilling pools with fresh water. PCMC has also urged residents to repair leaking taps, pipelines, and flush tanks, install water-saving fixtures, and prevent wastage caused by overflowing overhead tanks. Housing societies, hospitals, educational institutions, and industries have been instructed to maintain rainwater harvesting systems to maximise groundwater recharge during the monsoon.
