Maharashtra's Water Crisis: Government Implements 10% Cut Amid Drought Fears
Maharashtra's Water Management Strategy
Mumbai: The Maharashtra government announced on Monday that it will enforce a minimum 10% reduction in water supply across all urban and rural local bodies starting October 16, due to a deficient monsoon season. Girish Mahajan, the State Water Resources Minister, stated that his department has conducted a thorough assessment of water reserves, projecting availability until August 31, 2027, while considering the effects of El Nino and potential drought conditions. "Drinking water will be prioritized above all else," he emphasized.
Municipal corporations, municipalities, and gram panchayats have been instructed to implement this water cut from the specified date. Additionally, local authorities are urged to initiate special campaigns aimed at preventing water wastage and to ensure sewage treatment plants operate at full capacity. Treated wastewater is to be utilized for purposes such as gardening, construction, and cleaning.
Industries are mandated to recycle or reuse at least 30% of their water consumption, as per the government's directive. Mahajan also mentioned that a 10% emergency buffer stock will be maintained in each dam. Water for drinking will be safeguarded until August 31, 2027, accounting for factors like evaporation, silt, and unauthorized extraction. Irrigation water will only be allocated after fulfilling the needs for drinking, livestock, and fodder.
Mahajan urged both citizens and government entities to conserve water wisely. The Water Resources, Revenue, Agriculture, Industries, and Urban Development departments are collaborating to address the situation effectively.
The government has prioritized Rabi food grains and fodder, followed by other Rabi crops, while allowing perennial crops only if water supplies permit. The water resources department will coordinate with revenue and police authorities to combat unauthorized water extraction from dams, rivers, and canals. Joint patrols will be established to monitor these areas, and illegal pumps and equipment will be confiscated.