The Maharashtra government has announced a 10% water cut in urban areas from October 16, triggered by a significant decrease in rainfall attributed to the El Niño weather phenomenon. The new strategy aims to reduce water leakage and ensure sewage treatment plants are operated at full capacity.
The Maharashtra government has enacted a mandatory 10% water cut in all urban areas from October 16, as a consequence of the 'significant decrease in rainfall' caused by the El Niño weather phenomenon. This announcement was made on Monday by the state Minister of Water Resources Girish Mahajan.
The El Niño weather event is characterized by the warming of ocean surface temperatures in the eastern and central Pacific. It usually occurs every few years and has been associated with reduced monsoon rainfall in India. In September, the Maharashtra government declared drought conditions in 74% of its subdistricts due to a deficit in rainfall during the southwest monsoon season.
In response to these conditions, Girish Mahajan stated that the department has issued directives for the use of water with 'extreme frugality' and stringent measures. He emphasized that the main priority is to prevent any drinking water shortage. The new water strategy will remain in effect until August 31, 2023.
The state government’s plan also includes addressing water leakage and ensuring sewage treatment plants operate at full capacity. Water for irrigation will only be allocated following the fulfillment of requirements for drinking water, livestock, and fodder, according to the plan.
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