TMC bans use of drinking water for washing vehicles at Thane service centres amid El Nino fears

The Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has imposed restrictions on washing vehicles at service centres across the city. Drinking water, borewell water and well water can no longer be used to wash vehicles at these places. The move follows concern that the likely impact of El Nino could lead to a water shortage ahead.

The civic body issued the directive on Wednesday, October 28. It asks residents and vehicle service centres to use water carefully and avoid needless wastage. The restriction applies to two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers and all other vehicles.

Under the new restrictions, service centres and garages have been told not to use drinking water, borewell water or well water to wash vehicles. The use of pressure jets to clean vehicles has also been banned.

The corporation has, however, clarified that wiping a vehicle with a wet cloth, using water collected in a bucket, will be allowed. The aim is to cut water consumption while allowing basic cleaning of vehicles to continue without excess water flowing away.

The Water Supply Department has warned that action will be taken under the relevant sections of the Maharashtra Municipal Corporations Act against service centres found violating the directions.

The restrictions come amid concern that the likely impact of El Nino could create drought-like conditions and put pressure on existing water sources. The administration has urged people to use water responsibly to avoid a shortage.

According to a government resolution, steps are being taken to secure the supply of drinking water through planned management of available resources until August 31, 2027. The Thane Municipal Corporation has imposed the ban on vehicle washing as part of these wider efforts to save water.

The corporation has appealed to residents to cooperate with the administration and not to use drinking water for tasks that can be done with less water. It says the best use of the existing supply is essential, particularly as preparations are under way to manage water resources in the coming months.

People have also been asked not to spend water unnecessarily in daily chores and to adopt methods that reduce wastage. The appeal extends to vehicle owners, garages and service centres, who have been asked to follow the restrictions.

According to the Water Supply Department, the steps are meant to conserve available water and maintain the availability of drinking water amid fears of a possible shortage. The corporation has indicated that compliance with the restrictions will be important to ensure responsible use of water across the city.