Nashik's Water Demand Surges by 14 Million Litres Daily Amid Rising Temperatures
The city of Nashik has witnessed a significant increase in its daily water consumption, with a rise of 14 million litres per day (MLD) over the past 15-20 years, primarily driven by escalating mercury levels. In response to this growing demand, the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) has proactively enhanced its water supply, raising it from 600 MLD on February 28 to 614 MLD in March.
Expanding Population and Temperature Fluctuations Drive Water Needs
Over the last year, Nashik's overall daily water requirement has expanded substantially, growing from 541 MLD in February 2025 to 600 MLD in February 2026. This surge reflects the city's rapidly expanding population and the consequent strain on water resources. Temperature patterns have played a crucial role in this increase. In February, the maximum temperature in Nashik city was recorded at 31.7°C on February 28, gradually climbing to 38.5°C by March 12.
However, a shift in weather patterns has led to a notable drop in temperatures over the last eight days. Heavy rainfall in parts of Nashik district on March 18 and 19 contributed to this decline, bringing the maximum temperature down to 32°C as of March 21. Despite this recent cooling, the initial heatwave significantly impacted water usage.
NMC Official Highlights Summer Consumption Trends
An NMC official, speaking to TOI, emphasized that water consumption in the city typically increases by 15–20 MLD daily during the summer months due to heightened demand. "This year too, there has been a rise of around 14 MLD in water consumption during the first fortnight of March," the official stated, underscoring the consistent pattern of elevated usage during warmer periods.
Water Reservation and Dam Utilization Details
The NMC has secured a reservation of 6,400 million cubic feet (mcft) of water across three dams for the period spanning from October 15 last year to July 31 this year. This allocation includes 4,600 mcft from the Gangapur dam, 1,500 mcft from the Mukane dam, and 300 mcft from the Darna dam. To date, the civic body has utilized 4,910 mcft of water from these reservoirs, leaving a remaining reservation quota of 1,490 mcft available for future use.
Gangapur dam serves as the primary water source for Nashik, catering to approximately 80% of the city's requirements. The remaining 20% is supplied by the Mukane and Darna dams, highlighting the critical role of these reservoirs in meeting the city's water needs.
Enhanced Water Distribution Efforts
In a move to address inadequate water supply through taps, the NMC has recently increased the number of water tankers operating in the city. The daily count has been raised from 13 to 25 tankers, distributed across all six divisions of Nashik. This initiative aims to ensure that residents facing shortages receive adequate water, particularly during periods of peak demand.
The combination of rising temperatures, population growth, and strategic water management efforts underscores the challenges and responses in managing Nashik's water resources. As the city continues to expand, monitoring consumption patterns and optimizing supply will remain paramount for sustainable water governance.
