BMC considering making borewells compulsory in every building

In order to meet daily water requirements and resolve the severe water crisis in the city, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is considering making borewells compulsory in all existing and upcoming buildings.

"There is a need for borewells, particularly when the city is reeling under acute water shortage. With borewells in place people can at least use this water for washing, cleaning, watering plants and other purposes. All this will help us in saving potable water," Standing Committee chairperson Ravindra Waikar said.

The civic body has also kept aside Rs48 crore for the repairs of borewells in the city. It has already started the work of cleaning and repairing different types of wells.

"Though we have started the work of repairing borewells and dugwells, it is not enough. We will have to ensure that every building in the city—be it old or new—has borewells," Waikar said yesterday.

As there is not enough water content in the six lakes that provide water to the city, it is currently facing 15% water cut which is likely to increase to 30% by early next week.

Meanwhile, BMC has decided to increase water cuts in the city in coming days.

"There will be 30% water cut between November 15 - January 15 and then it will be 20% water cut during the summer period. I had to take this unpleasant decision before I leave the BMC, but an official announcement will soon come in this regard," Municipal commissioner Jairaj Phatak said.

The civic body will make a formal announcement early next week on water cuts and reduction of water supply to construction sites, commercial establishments and other bulk users, he said.

Lakes that cater to the city's needs have received 9.83 lakh mn litres of water against the demand of 13 lakh mn litres.