Mumbai to face 10% water cut from Friday amid declining reservoir levels

The BMC publicly confirmed that a 10% water cut across Mumbai and other areas will begin on Friday. The decision was taken on Monday following directives from the Maharashtra Water Resources Department and in light of forecasts by the Indian Meteorological Department warning of below-normal monsoon conditions this year due to the possible impact of El Niño and the Indian Ocean Dipole. The city’s reservoirs currently hold 3,40,399 million litres of water, which is 23.52% of the city’s annual required stock of 14,47,363 million litres. The administration said reservoir levels are being monitored closely and water supply is being planned and managed on a daily basis. There is no immediate panic, as additional water is expected from Bhatsa Dam (1,47,092 million litres) and Upper Vaitarna Dam (90,000 million litres), totalling 237 million cubic metres to help sustain supply. When combined with carry-over reserves and the reduced consumption due to the cut, the city’s water supply is projected to last until August 17. Citizens are urged to adopt water-saving practices, and hotels and commercial establishments are also asked to minimize wastage.

Civic chief Ashwini Bhide announced a 10% water cut across Mumbai and nearby areas—including Thane, Bhiwandi-Nizampur and adjacent villages that draw water from the civic body. The cut was described as a precautionary measure in view of declining reservoir levels, with the restriction to remain in force until reservoir levels improve following satisfactory rainfall.