Pune has only 7.15 TMC water left till June 2027; alternate-day supply likely after Diwali

Pune, October 31, 2026: Only 7.15 TMC of water remains to meet the city's needs till June 2027. With stocks falling and demand rising, the administration faces the challenge of managing it. Water is likely to be supplied on alternate days in Pune after Diwali.

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has received a total of 13.5 TMC of water. Of this, about 6.35 TMC has been used since July 1. The remaining water will have to last till summer, and uncertainty over the rains has made matters harder.

The issue was raised at the canal committee meeting held on Thursday. The meeting was chaired by Deputy Chief Minister and Pune Guardian Minister Sunetra Pawar. Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe-Patil and Agriculture Minister Dattatray Bharne were also present.

PMC Additional Commissioner Pawneet Kaur said there is a gap between the city's actual requirement and the available stock, so cuts will have to be made. She said the corporation may have to introduce alternate-day supply. Before a final decision, the proposed cut will be discussed with the mayor and leaders of all political parties. She also indicated that, because of the water shortage, the corporation may have to review or scale down some capital works.

There is also confusion over the period for which the water allocation is meant. A quota of 13 TMC has been fixed for Pune, but it is not clear whether it applies from November 1, 2026, or covers the period from July 1, 2026, to August 31, 2027. According to officials, 6.35 TMC has been used since July 1.

The usable stock shrinks further because 10 per cent of the available water has been set aside as a buffer for emergency needs.

Opposition leaders criticised the allocation. They allege that Pune did not get enough water in its share and that no MLA from the city objected at the meeting. They claim the corporation has been asked to make do with only 7.15 TMC till June 2027, and so alternate-day supply may become necessary after Diwali.

The PMC must now prepare a distribution plan to deliver water equitably across the city. According to officials, reducing consumption, stopping leakages and public cooperation will be important in managing the remaining water.