PCMC Warns of Strict Action Against Water Wastage
Civic body plans 10% cut in water supply amid rainfall concerns; special squads to monitor misuse
Pimpri : The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has urged citizens to use drinking water judiciously and avoid wastage amid concerns over inadequate rainfall and the possibility of water shortages in the coming months. Municipal Commissioner Dr Vijay Suryawanshi said the civic body has initiated precautionary measures, including a proposed 10% reduction in water supply in line with government directions.
The measures aim to ensure that available water reserves last until August 31, 2027. The civic administration has also appointed special inspection squads at the ward level to identify and prevent the misuse of drinking water.
According to the civic body, housing societies should use treated water from sewage treatment plants (STPs) and other treatment facilities for gardens, lawns and watering trees instead of potable water. Societies found keeping their STPs non-operational may face permanent disconnection of their water connections.
The PCMC has warned that unauthorised drinking water connections at vehicle service centres will be disconnected immediately, with criminal cases registered against violators. Using potable water to wash vehicles, terraces and courtyards should also be avoided.
New housing projects may receive water connections with restricted capacity, while commercial washing centres and other large commercial projects will not be granted new connections. The use of electric pumps to draw water directly from municipal connections will invite seizure of the equipment and penalties.
Commercial establishments, construction projects and other non-domestic consumers have been asked to arrange their own water supplies, wherever required. Misuse of drinking water for purposes other than essential domestic needs, schools and hospitals may attract penalties.
Residents have also been urged to prevent leakage and overflow from underground and overhead storage tanks and report leaks in municipal pipelines to the water supply department. Groundwater resources should be used sparingly.
Builders have been advised to use treated water supplied by PCMC sewage treatment plants for construction instead of borewell water. Illegal extraction of river water for tanker sales may lead to criminal proceedings.
The civic body will recognise housing societies that demonstrate effective water conservation. Suryawanshi appealed to citizens to cooperate with the administration, stressing that every drop saved today will help secure the city’s water needs in the future.
