As Mumbai continues to see above-normal temperatures for almost three weeks, the city's water supply has significantly decreased. The water level in the seven lakes that supply water to the city was 45.08 percent as of March 9, which is a six percentage point decrease in the last 15 days, according to reports that show the statistics from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). Nearly 51% of the water stock was present on February 24.
Civic Body To Soon Announce Water Cuts After Planning:
According to civic authorities, a decision about water cuts will be made this week. Mumbai is under a heatwave warning from March 9 to 11 as per the reports of the India Meteorological Department (IMD). This follows a heat wave that has been plaguing the city since February 25.
The persistently high temperatures have been blamed by BMC officials for the sharp reduction in water supplies. Water levels could drop more quickly than expected if the current trend continues. Since the monsoon is still three to four months away, BMC officials have cautioned that limitations may be implemented in the upcoming months, even if an immediate water cut is unlikely.
Water Stock Available In 2025 More Than 2024:
According to BMC officials, every percentage point of water stock is equivalent to two to three days' worth of demand. The city could be sustained for about four months with the current stock. Mumbai's water stock was at 39.73 percent last year around the same time period, while it was at 45.23 percent in 2023.
Authorities recalled that in 2023, water shortages occurred in May due to excessive daytime temperatures. Rainfall in the lakes' catchment areas usually happens later, even though the monsoon usually comes between June 10 and June 15. Water supplies may be under more stress as a result of this delay.
After getting permission from the state's irrigation department, the BMC was forced to use reserve water last year due to a delayed monsoon. But when the rainfall increased in July, the reserves were restored.
Tansa, Bhatsa, Tulsi, Vihar, Upper Vaitarna, Middle Vaitarna, and Modak Sagar are the seven lakes that give water to Mumbai. The remaining lakes are dispersed around the satellite districts of Palghar, Thane, and Nashik, with Tulsi and Vihar situated inside the city limits. These lakes have a combined storage capacity of 14.47 lakh million litres.
Authorities are keeping a careful eye on the issue as summer heat builds and water levels continue to drop. Officials are being cautious and are being ready for any necessary interventions should the high temperatures continue, even though they may not need to take immediate action.
Share
Tweet
