In the canal committee meeting on Saturday, a decision was made to maintain Pune city's water supply from the Khadakwasla project, allowing the Municipal Corporation to receive approximately 21 PMC of water. Water Resources Minister Vikhe-Patil assured that there would be no reduction in the city's water supply, despite the Water Resources Department's warning about outstanding water charges. He also announced that a meeting would be held next week with the Municipal Corporation regarding its excessive water usage.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister and Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar, Minister Vikhe-Patil, local MLAs, and officials from the Municipal Corporation and Water Resources Department. They approved the maintenance of the 11.60 TMC water stock and the usual extraction of an additional 7.95 TMC by the Municipal Corporation. It was decided that 1 TMC would be supplied from the Bhama Askhed dam and 0.60 TMC from the Pawana dam. Vikhe-Patil reiterated that there would be no water cuts due to adequate dam storage, but the Municipal Corporation must pay Rs 200 crore by the end of March for its excess water usage and outstanding dues.
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With the city's growing population, additional water supply will be necessary. Vikhe noted a discrepancy between the water supply and its management, indicating that a decision is needed. He mentioned that the Municipal Corporation's excessive water usage could impact rural water supplies, potentially leading to legal challenges from farmers. Thus, a solution must be found.
The Water Resources Department had notified the Municipal Corporation of an outstanding balance of Rs 714 crore and warned that water supply could be reduced if not settled by February 25. In response to inquiries, Vikhe-Patil confirmed there would be no water cuts. Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar declined to comment to the media after the meeting.