Mumbai: Maharashtra is bracing for tighter water management as the State Government on Monday ordered a minimum 10% cut in water supply across urban and rural areas from October 16, citing deficient monsoon rainfall and the possibility of a drought-like situation.
The directive will cover all municipal corporations, municipalities and gram panchayats, putting major cities including Nagpur under the water-saving regime as the government moves to conserve available dam stocks for drinking and other essential needs.
Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan said the department had carried out dam-wise and sector-wise planning of available water stocks up to August 31, 2027, factoring in the impact of El Nino and the possibility of a prolonged water shortage.
“Drinking water will be given the highest priority,” Mahajan said, adding that all local bodies had been instructed to implement the 10% cut from October 16.
The government has also ordered local authorities to launch special drives to check water leakage and wastage and ensure that sewage treatment plants operate at full capacity. Treated wastewater is to be diverted for non-potable uses such as gardening, construction and washing, reducing pressure on fresh water supplies.
Industries, meanwhile, have been directed to reuse or recycle at least 30% of the water they consume.
Dams to maintain emergency reserve
As part of its contingency planning, the government has decided to maintain an additional 10% emergency water buffer in every dam. Water required for drinking purposes will be reserved up to August 31, 2027, after factoring in evaporation, silt accumulation and unauthorised extraction.
Irrigation releases will be considered only after drinking water requirements, as well as the needs of livestock and fodder, are met, Mahajan said.
The government has also prioritised Rabi foodgrains and fodder in water allocation. Other Rabi crops will follow, while perennial crops will receive water only if stocks permit.
Crackdown on illegal water extraction
The State is also preparing to tighten its grip on unauthorised water extraction from dams, rivers and canals. The Water Resources Department will coordinate with the Revenue and Police departments to form joint teams for surveillance.
Illegal pumps and other equipment used for unauthorised extraction will be seized, the government said.
Mahajan appealed to citizens, local bodies and government agencies to use water judiciously and avoid wastage.
The Water Resources, Revenue, Agriculture, Industries and Urban Development departments are coordinating the conservation and allocation measures as Maharashtra prepares for a potentially difficult water year.
