New Delhi: The delay in monsoon rain is now becoming a serious water worry for western India. Mumbai is already left with water stock that may last only
about 40 days, and Goa has now said it has drinking water stock for about one month.
The concern has grown as lake and dam levels continue to fall in the absence of steady rainfall. The India Meteorological Department has predicted that rainfall activity in Goa may resume by next weekend, but for now, both Mumbai and Goa are watching the skies very closely.
Mumbai lakes fall to low levels
Mumbai gets drinking water from seven lakes. These are Tansa, Vihar, Tulsi, Bhatsa, Upper Vaitarna, Modak Sagar and Middle Vaitarna.
According to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s Hydraulic Department, the combined water stock in these reservoirs is now at 9.33 per cent. This is lower than 12.27 per cent during the same period last year and 10.24 per cent in 2024.
The total water stock across the seven reservoirs has dropped to 1,44,918 million litres. Mumbai currently gets around 3,950 million litres of water per day.
For a city that runs on packed locals, long office hours and endless chai breaks, water shortage is not a small matter. It hits homes, housing societies, small shops, hotels and hospitals.
Goa says one month water stock remains
Goa is facing its own worry. State Water Supply Department Minister Subhash Phal Desai told PTI that reservoir levels have dropped sharply due to the lack of rain.
“But there is no need to panic. There is enough water to fulfil the requirement for a month,” he said.
The minister added that strict advisories will be issued so that the available water is not exhausted before that period.
He also cautioned, “There is no scarcity right now, but that does not mean it won’t happen in the future.”
Which dams in Goa are under pressure
The Selaulim dam, which supplies water to South Goa, Kushavati district and parts of North Goa, is 27 per cent full. It has a drawing capacity of 280 MLD.
The Anjunem dam in North Goa has fallen to 9.9 per cent. Mhaisal Dam near Ponda is at 19 per cent.
Some areas are better placed. The Chapoli dam in Canacona has ample water, while Amthane reservoir also has a “good” stock, according to the minister.
The coming days will be critical. If rain picks up, reservoirs may start recovering. If the lull continues, cities and states may have to tighten water use.
