Powai Lake in Mumbai began overflowing on Monday after heavy rainfall in the catchment area, but the seven reservoirs that supply water to the city continue to have significantly low stocks, raising concerns of potential water cuts.
Reservoir Levels at Five-Year Low
According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the combined water stock in the seven reservoirs — Bhatsa, Upper Vaitarna, Middle Vaitarna, Tansa, Modak Sagar, Vihar, and Tulsi — stood at only 8.78% of their total capacity on Monday, the lowest for this time of year in the last five years. Last year on the same date, the stock was 14.26%.
The BMC attributed the low levels to deficient rainfall in the catchment areas during June and the first half of July. The reservoirs have a combined capacity of 14.47 lakh million litres, but current storage is just 1.27 lakh million litres.
Powai Lake Overflow Brings Relief
Powai Lake, a popular recreational spot, started overflowing after continuous rain in the area. The lake's overflow is a welcome sight for locals, but it does not contribute to Mumbai's drinking water supply. The city relies on the seven reservoirs located in the neighbouring Thane and Nashik districts.
"The situation is worrying. If the rain does not pick up in the catchment areas soon, we may have to impose water cuts," a BMC official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Impact on Daily Life
Mumbai receives about 3,800 million litres of water daily from these reservoirs. A significant drop in supply could affect households, businesses, and industries across the city. The BMC has already urged citizens to use water judiciously and avoid wastage.
In 2020, the BMC had imposed a 10% water cut when reservoir levels dipped to similar lows. Officials are monitoring the situation closely and will decide on any cuts based on rainfall in the coming weeks.
Weather Forecast Offers Some Hope
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted heavy to very heavy rainfall in the catchment areas over the next few days, which could help improve the water stock. However, the BMC cautioned that a sustained spell of rain is needed to bridge the deficit.
"We are hopeful that the monsoon will revive. But we cannot be complacent," the official added.
