30% water cut unlikely this year in Mumbai

After scanty rainfall compelled the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) to impose a 10% water cut in the city from July 1 this year, a harsh move, like the one made in 2009 when the cut was hiked to 30% is unlikely this season, say senior civic officials.

From July 8 to July 22 in 2009, the corporation was forced to execute a 30% water cut with lake levels dipping to 1,45,770 million litres per day (mld). The cut percentage was slashed to 20% from July 23 when lake levels rose to 3,72,140mld following sufficient rainfall. On July 30 this year, the reservoir levels have been reported to be 4,28,532mld with a water stock of 138 days available. At present, the civic body is imposing a 10% water cut.

“Though we have received subnormal showers this year, the situation is not as bad as is being perceived. We still have two months’ rainfall yet to be received in catchment areas. Rainwater percolating from the hills is also going to be counted,” said a senior civic official, requesting not to be named.

The corporation though is likely to continue with at least 10% water cut post August 1, while monitoring lake levels before making a decision regarding further cuts. “Any crucial decision on water cuts is likely only when we stop receiving showers,” he added.

The corporation, however, has appealed to residents to use water judiciously. The BMC provides water at Rs106 per 10,000 litres. “In neighbouring Navi Mumbai, a tanker trip may cost residents an average of Rs1,000 for the same quantity. In Mumbai, the rates are minimum Rs1,500-2,000. The cost is dynamic. Transportation cost is also a factor. So, residents must save the water supplied by the BMC at cheaper rates to save money,” he said.