Mumbai is staring at a looming water crisis as the water levels in the seven major reservoirs that supply water to the city have dropped significantly — with only 33% of the total water stock remaining.
In view of the depleting levels, water cuts may soon be implemented. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has urged citizens to use water judiciously to avoid a severe shortage.
Mumbai requires around 3,950 million litres of water daily. In a similar situation last year, the BMC had imposed a 5% water cut from May 30 and increased it to 10% from June 5. However, the state government later assured uninterrupted water supply, which led to the withdrawal of the cuts. But this year, the situation appears equally concerning.
Urbanization and Rising Demand
Mumbai gets its water from seven reservoirs — Modak Sagar, Tansa, Upper Vaitarna, Middle Vaitarna, Tulsi, Vihar, and Bhatsa. However, due to rapid urbanization and industrial growth, water demand has been increasing sharply. Additionally, weather changes have sparked concerns over a delayed monsoon, which could worsen the crisis.
Considering the situation, BMC has requested the state government to release the reserved stock of water from Vaitarna and Bhatsa reservoirs. However, even after three weeks, no decision has been made.
Current Water Levels in Reservoirs (in million litres):
- Upper Vaitarna: 92.035
- Modak Sagar: 30,260
- Tansa: 38.660
- Middle Vaitarna: 75,585
- Bhatsa: 238,959
- Vihar: 12.390
- Tulsi: 3,550
