Maharashtra: State is on the verge of a severe water shortage, with dam storage levels across the state plunging to just 41.3% of their live capacity. The sweltering summer temperatures and a delayed monsoon have added to the pressure on authorities to sustain water supply through at least mid-July.
The Pune region is currently experiencing the most critical shortage, with its reservoirs down to only 36.31%. On the other hand, the Amravati region is better positioned, holding 50.09% of its water capacity. The Konkan region follows closely at 49.96%, while Nagpur and Nashik stand at 41.49% and 43.9% respectively. Meanwhile, Marathwada — a region frequently affected by drought — is at 40.49%.
The state has a total of 2,997 dams with a combined live storage potential of 40,498 million cubic meters. As of mid-April, around 30,034 million cubic meters of usable water remain — slightly better than last year’s 35.16% at the same point — but officials remain cautious.
The threat of a prolonged heatwave has intensified concerns, prompting the state to increase the deployment of water tankers, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions. As of April 7, a total of 223 tankers are in operation, supplying water to 178 villages and 606 smaller hamlets.
Satara district in the Pune division tops the list with 40 active tankers, followed by Jalna in Marathwada with 32. Thane district is also under strain, currently being served by 30 water tankers.
Authorities are closely tracking the situation and are ready to scale up tanker deployments if necessary. Citizens are being urged to adopt water-saving practices, and the government is considering more stringent conservation measures to prevent the crisis from worsening.
With no immediate rainfall expected, Maharashtra is preparing for a tough summer ahead.
