Pune water cut measures have been announced after the district administration said storage in the Khadakwasla reservoir was significantly below the level normally expected by mid-October. The administration has ordered a 20% reduction in water drawn from Khadakwasla and directed the Pune Municipal Corporation and district authorities to enforce strict water-use management across the district.
District Collector Jitendra Dudi said the Khadakwasla reservoir had reached only 82% of its expected storage, compared with the usual 100% level by 15 October. The administration said the reduction was necessary to manage available water and reduce the risk of shortages if adequate rainfall does not occur in the coming period.
The district administration has also said that water planning from the Pavana reservoir is being undertaken up to 31 August 2027. Pavana currently has 92% of its storage available, according to the information shared by the collector. Authorities said water would be conserved and managed for drinking-water requirements so that residents do not face a shortage in the future.
The administration has instructed the Pune Municipal Corporation and district authorities to use water carefully and has appealed to residents to avoid wastage. It warned that action would be taken against people who misuse water or draw it illegally using motors or other equipment. Officials said criminal cases could be registered in such instances.
The decision also affects agricultural water planning in Pune district, where drought conditions have been declared in 12 talukas. The administration said 10 talukas had already been classified as drought-affected and two more were recently added. Crop damage assessments have been completed for more than 80% of affected areas, while the remaining assessments are being completed.
The final report on the crop damage assessments is scheduled to be submitted to the state government by 20 October. The district administration plans to ensure that financial assistance received from the government reaches affected farmers before Diwali. Officials said the assessment process, known as panchnamas, was being completed on an urgent basis.
For the rabi season, the administration said foodgrain and vegetable crops would receive priority when water is released for agriculture. Water would be made available for other agricultural activities only after these crops are considered. The administration has also prohibited the movement of wet and dry fodder outside Pune district to protect supplies for livestock during the drought.
The measures follow the administration’s assessment that the district is facing intensified drought conditions and lower-than-expected reservoir storage. The immediate steps announced are a 20% reduction in Khadakwasla water use, tighter enforcement against unauthorised extraction, prioritisation of selected rabi crops, completion of damage assessments and planned relief payments before Diwali.
