Mumbai Water Crisis: BMC Proposes 10% Water Cut From May 1 Amid Weak Monsoon Forecast

With rising heat levels, concerns over water shortage are growing among Mumbaikars. The weather forecast agency Skymet has predicted that this year’s monsoon may be affected by El Niño, with rainfall likely to remain below average. Although this is a preliminary forecast, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken note and initiated precautionary measures.

As part of its preparedness, the Mumbai civic body has proposed a 10% water cut in the city from May 1, 2026 and sent the proposal to the Municipal Commissioner for approval.

Also Read | El Nino Impact in India: Country Likely to Witness Below-Normal Monsoon This Year, Says Skymet.

The IMD has estimated that rainfall this year may be around 92% of the long-term average. With the possibility of a delayed monsoon, the Maharashtra government has advised planning water supply till the end of August instead of July. In this context, the BMC says the proposed cut is necessary to ensure uninterrupted supply through the lean period.

Levels in Dams

Currently, the seven lakes supplying water to Mumbai have about 33.60% of their total storage. While this is typically sufficient until early July, rising temperatures have accelerated evaporation, leading to faster depletion than expected.

Also Read | Mumbai Water Cut: 20–25% Supply Reduction After Padgha Power Outage.

Water Supply and Demand

Mumbai receives around 4,100 million litres of water daily from seven key reservoirs, including Modak Sagar, Tansa, Bhatsa and Vaitarna. The city’s annual water requirement stands at approximately 14.47 lakh million litres.

Water Stock as of April 15, 2026

Bhatsa: 2,35,439 million litres (highest stock)

Upper Vaitarna: 77,045 million litres

Middle Vaitarna: 69,106 million litres

Modak Sagar: 45,340 million litres

Tansa: 40,817 million litres

Vihar: 15,353 million litres

Tulsi (Basil): 3,274 million litres

Officials said the situation is being closely monitored as the city prepares for the summer months.