Detailed Analysis of Water Stock in Dams Supplying to Pune, PCMC and Hinjawadi; Will Citizens Face Water Scarcity This Summer?
Comparative Analysis of Water Stock in Pune 2024 vs. 2025
Pune residents might assume that the abundant rainfall received during the 2024 monsoon season has ensured a smooth water supply until the arrival of the next monsoon in June 2025. However, a closer look at the current water storage levels in the reservoirs supplying drinking water to Pune city and the surrounding region provides a clearer picture of the situation.
Water Sources for Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad
Pune city primarily relies on the Khadakwasla dam project, which consists of four dams:
- Panshet
- Warasgaon
- Temghar
- Khadakwasla
As of March 3, 2025, the collective water storage in this dam cluster stands at 470.76 million cubic meters (mcum) or approximately 16.63 TMC, which is 57% of its total designed live storage capacity of 825.66 mcum (29.17 TMC). Comparatively, on the same date last year, the water storage stood at 441.43 mcum (15.59 TMC), roughly 53% of the capacity. This indicates a slight improvement in storage levels. However, increasing population and urban expansion continue to exert additional pressure on water resources.
Pimpri-Chinchwad, on the other hand, is primarily supplied by Pawana Dam, which currently holds 132.7 mcum (4.69 TMC), translating to 48.38% of its full capacity. Last year at this time, its storage was 130.11 mcum (4.6 TMC), or 47.43%.
Mulshi Dam and Its Significance
Mulshi Dam, which is managed by Tata Power, also plays a crucial role in supplying water to Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjawadi and select areas of Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad. As of today, its water level stands at 308.63 mcum (10.9 TMC), approximately 59.04% of its full capacity. Last year, it was slightly lower at 307.59 mcum (10.86 TMC), or 58.84%.
Overall Water Storage in Pune District
Pune district has 720 large, medium, and small dams. The cumulative live water storage across all these dams currently stands at 9122.92 mcum (322.2 TMC), which is 59.9% of total capacity. In comparison, last year at this time, it was significantly lower at 7197.67 mcum (254.3 TMC), or 47.3%.
Urban vs. Rural Water Outlook
While the overall water storage in Pune district is relatively better than last year, it is important to note that dams supplying urban areas (Pune and PCMC) are under more stress compared to others. Urban water demand continues to rise with the city’s growing population, new residential and commercial developments, and increased industrial usage.
Looking ahead, urban residents in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad may face potential water shortages towards the end of the summer season unless consumption is managed efficiently. The timely onset of monsoon in June 2025 remains crucial for replenishing reservoirs and ensuring an uninterrupted water supply. However, semi-urban and rural areas in Pune district, which depend on a broader range of water sources, are in a comparatively better position to sustain water availability until the monsoon arrives.
Key Takeaways
- The Khadakwasla dam cluster supplying Pune city is currently at 57% storage, slightly higher than last year.
- Pawana Dam, which serves Pimpri-Chinchwad, is at 48.38%, also slightly better than last year.
- Mulshi Dam, catering to select urban areas such as Hinjawadi, is at 59.04% storage similar to last year.
- Overall water storage in Pune district is at 59.9%, a significant improvement from 47.3% last year.
- Urban areas could face water shortages towards the end of summer, while rural areas may have relatively better endurance.
As Pune continues to expand, efficient water management, conservation efforts, and public awareness remain key to ensuring sustainable water supply until the next monsoon arrives.
Raw water storage data obtained from Water Resources Department, Government of Maharashtra, analyzed by PuneNow analytics team.
