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Boosting Dam Stock: Heavy Rainfall in Catchments
In recent days, the Khadakwasla circle has experienced three consecutive days of relentless rainfall, resulting in a notable rise in water storage levels within the dams located in the area. This surge in water availability holds immense significance for the region, as it not only boosts the overall stock but also ensures a stable water supply to meet the city's requirements for an extended period
Positive Rise in Dam Stock
The cumulative water storage in the four reservoirs in the Khadakwasla circle has witnessed a marginal increase due to the constant rain. As of Wednesday morning, the collective stock stood at 4.42 trillion cubic feet (TMC), marking a rise of 0.26 TMC compared to the previous day’s stock of 4.16 TMC. Although the increment may seem relatively small, it holds significant importance, as it ensures an additional water supply that can cater to the city’s needs for approximately five to six days. This surge in dam stock can be attributed to substantial rainfall recorded across all four dams within 24 hours.
Rainfall Data:
- Panshet: 97mm
- Varasgaon: 96mm
- Temghar: 80mm
The significant rainfall in these catchment areas has accumulated water within the reservoirs. Officials from the state irrigation department have expressed optimism, stating that the water levels will continue to rise if rain intensity persists over the next few days. It is worth noting that the current water stock in the four dams collectively exceeds the levels recorded on the same day last year by a remarkable 1.7 TMC.
Positive Signs Amidst Scanty Rainfall
Until now, the region has been experiencing a continuous decline in water levels due to insufficient rainfall. However, the recent rise in dam stock marks a significant shift in the ongoing monsoon season. The weather department has predicted further precipitation in and around the ghat sections, which gives optimism regarding a continuous increase in water levels within the dams around Pune. Upstream dams, including Temghar, Varasgaon, and Panshet, have already recorded rainfall exceeding 250mm thus far, further reinforcing hopes for a substantial boost in dam stock.
Ongoing Water Management Measures
To mitigate the impact of water scarcity, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) implemented a once-a-week water cut in the city as a precautionary measure. These water cuts are expected to remain in effect until the dam stocks reach a comfortable level. PMC officials constantly communicate with the irrigation department, closely monitoring the water stocks and assessing the rainfall.
Rainfall in Other Dam Catchment Areas
Apart from the Khadakwasla circle, heavy spells of rain were recorded in other major dams across the district. Pavana dam, which supplies water to Pimpri Chinchwad, received 28mm of rainfall on Wednesday, while Mulshi recorded 54mm. Bhama Askhed dam, responsible for providing water to the city’s eastern parts, received 20mm of rainfall. The surrounding catchment areas of Kolhapur city also witnessed drizzles, prompting the India Meteorological Department (IMD) to issue a yellow alert for the district’s ghat regions on Thursday and Friday. This alert predicts heavy rain in the mentioned areas.
Public Expectations and Outlook
Residents eagerly hope for more substantial rainfall soon to replenish the depleted dam water levels. Ashok Patil, a resident from the Kalamba area, expressed concerns about the drizzles’ limited impact on the region’s water storage. Patil emphasised the need for heavy rains over a sustained period of at least a week to replenish the dams and lakes adequately. The Kalamba Lake, in particular, has experienced severe depletion and eagerly awaits a significant downpour.
Conclusion
The recent heavy rainfall in the catchment areas surrounding the Khadakwasla circle has brought about a positive change in the water storage levels of the dams. The rise in dam stock offers respite from the declining levels experienced earlier in the monsoon season. As officials anticipate a continuation of rain in the coming days, the region remains optimistic about further increases in water availability. With ongoing water management measures and constant monitoring by the Pune Municipal Corporation, the city aims to overcome water scarcity concerns and ensure a sustained supply for its residents. As the region looks forward to more substantial rainfall, the hopes of a rejuvenated water supply system and replenished dam and lake levels grow stronger.
