Nagpur: Nagpur’s water security is coming into focus as storage in the Pench reservoir system drops to 47.85%, prompting the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) to seek an allocation of 190 million cubic metres (MCM) to meet the city’s drinking water needs.
The declining storage has also raised concerns for agriculture, with a preliminary assessment by the Water Resources Department indicating that Rabi-season irrigation for 2026–27 may not be possible in the dam’s command area.
NMC Seeks Assured Water Allocation
The civic body’s request for 190 MCM highlights the importance of securing adequate water for Nagpur as reservoir levels remain below half of the designed live storage capacity.
With drinking water demand remaining a priority, authorities face the challenge of managing available reserves while balancing competing requirements.
Farmers Face Uncertainty Over Rabi Crops
The preliminary assessment that Rabi irrigation may not be possible could create difficulties for farmers dependent on reservoir water for winter cultivation.
The final allocation decisions will determine how the available stock is distributed between urban drinking water and agricultural requirements.
Water Conservation Becomes Crucial
The situation underscores the need for careful water management as Nagpur approaches the drier months. Reducing wastage, repairing leakages and using water responsibly will be important in helping the city manage its available resources.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining how authorities manage the Pench reserves and safeguard Nagpur’s drinking water supply.
