Mumbaikars to brace for water cuts over delayed monsoon

Mumbaikars to brace for water cuts over delayed monsoon

Even as only 10 days left for June to end the much-awaited rains are yet to arrive in Mumbai.

With the delayed monsoon, the lakes supplying water across the city is facing acute water shortage.

If reports are to be believed, the total water stocks in seven lakes that cater to Mumbai is now just 7.7 per cent, excluding the reserve stock provided by the state government.

As a result, in a significant concern to Mumbaikars, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has warned of water cut from July if this situation continues to remain the same.

According to reports, as of June 20, 2023, the total water stock stood at 13.9 per cent which is 1.59 lakh million litres. However, without the reserve stock, only 7.7 per cent which is 1.11 lakh million litres is left.

The water stock comparatively, on June 20, 2022, and 2021, stood at 10.5 per cent and 14.16 percent respectively.

For Mumbai to go without water cut for a whole year, the lakes need to fill up to 14.47 lakh million litres.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted favourable conditions for the onset of monsoon over the city by the weekend. On the other hand, as per BMC’s additional municipal commissioner
P Velrasu, in-charge of hydraulics department, a decision whether or not to impose a water cut will be taken by the end of the month depending on rains.

Of the seven lakes, the maximum percentage of potable water is supplied by Bhatsa (48%). Upper Vaitarna provides for around 16% of the city’s drinking water needs, Middle Vaitarna 12%, Modak Sagar 11%, and Tansa 10%. Tulsi and Vihar lakes provide for a total 2%.

News input KV Raman