Mumbai: The city of Mumbai is facing a serious water crisis as the seven lakes that supply drinking water have dropped to critically low levels. Officials have warned that the city may have only around 40 days of water supply left if rainfall does not improve. According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the combined water stock in the reservoirs has fallen to just 9.33%. This is lower than previous years, raising fresh concerns over water security in the city.
Lake Levels Drop Below Safe Limit
Mumbai receives its drinking water from seven major lakes — Tansa, Vihar, Tulsi, Bhatsa, Upper Vaitarna, Modak Sagar, and Middle Vaitarna. Together, these reservoirs currently hold 1,44,918 million litres of water. However, officials confirmed that Upper Vaitarna has already reached dead stock levels, while several other lakes are near critical capacity.
BMC Imposes Water Cuts
In response to the falling levels, the BMC has already imposed a 10% water cut across the city. As a result, daily water supply has been reduced from around 4,100 million litres per day to approximately 3,650 MLD.
Moreover, authorities are closely monitoring the situation and may introduce stricter restrictions if conditions worsen.
Delayed Monsoon Worsens Situation
The crisis has been intensified due to the delayed monsoon. So far, the catchment areas have received almost no rainfall this year, compared to 101 mm during the same period last year. As a result, water inflow into the reservoirs has significantly reduced, increasing pressure on existing supplies.
Strict Water Conservation Measures
In addition to supply cuts, the BMC has implemented strict water conservation measures. Water connections for construction sites have been disconnected, and approvals for new projects have been suspended.
Furthermore, water supply to swimming pools has been temporarily stopped. A 20% cut has also been imposed on industrial, commercial, and sports club usage. Authorities have urged citizens to avoid wastage and use water responsibly during this critical period.
Groundwater Use Encouraged
To conserve drinking water, officials have advised the use of borewells and wells for non-drinking purposes such as gardening, road cleaning, and vehicle washing.
Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Water Resources Department and BMC continue to monitor the situation and enforce austerity measures.If rainfall does not improve soon, Mumbai may face deeper water restrictions in the coming weeks. Officials remain hopeful that the monsoon will stabilize the situation, but caution that conservation efforts are now essential.