Maharashtra Imposes Minimum 10 Percent Water Cut in All Local Bodies From Oct 16
MUMBAI — The Maharashtra government announced on Monday that it will implement a minimum 10 per cent water cut across all urban and rural local bodies starting October 16 to address the impact of a deficient monsoon. The decision comes as authorities prepare for potential drought-like conditions linked to the El Nino weather pattern.
State Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan stated that his department has completed detailed dam-wise and use-wise planning for available water stocks up to August 31, 2027. Under the directives, municipal corporations, municipalities, and gram panchayats across the state are required to execute the mandatory 10 per cent cut from the scheduled date.
Drinking water will receive the highest priority under the newly framed allocation measures. The administration has mandated that a 10 per cent emergency buffer stock be retained in each dam, with drinking water reserves planned up to August 31, 2027, factoring in silt, evaporation losses, and unauthorised extraction. Water will be made available for irrigation purposes only after satisfying drinking water, livestock, and fodder needs.
Local authorities have been ordered to launch dedicated drives to detect and stop water leakages, while ensuring that sewage treatment plants run at full capacity. According to the government, treated wastewater must be directed toward non-potable activities, including gardening, construction work, and vehicle washing. Industrial units must reuse or recycle at least 30 per cent of their allocated water.
Crop planning will also face tight restrictions. Rabi foodgrains and fodder crops will receive precedence, followed by other Rabi crops, whereas perennial crops will be permitted only if adequate reserves remain. Multiple state bodies, including the Water Resources, Revenue, Agriculture, Industries, and Urban Development departments, are coordinating to execute the water conservation measures.
To prevent water theft, the Water Resources Department will team up with revenue and police officials to monitor dams, rivers, and canals. Joint patrolling squads will operate in these zones to intercept unauthorised extraction, and authorities have been empowered to seize illegal pumps and related equipment.
