PMC allots Rs 1 cr to develop city’s natural water sources

Pune: Against the backdrop of the ongoing water shortage, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has decided to use natural water sources for gardens and construction activities. The civic body has allocated Rs 1 crore towards rejuvenation of natural water sources. The PMC has also appealed to citizens to inform them about natural water sources.
 
In 2010, the PMC requested the Ground Water Survey and Development Authority (GSDA) to conduct a survey to identify water resources in the city. According to the survey, there are 4,820 borewells and 399 dug wells. Out of these, water from 1,575 borewells and 155 dug wells can be used for consumption. The PMC had requested the GSDA to submit a list of feasible places for digging borewells for drinking water purposes. 

The GSDA identified 530 such places in the city. The GSDA suggested that the PMC test the water samples in a government laboratory. The report states that the quantity of water from these sources is sufficient to last a whole year. However, the PMC had not taken any efforts in that direction. 

After eight years, the PMC realised the importance of natural water sources. 

The PMC allocated a sum of Rs 1 crore to develop natural water sources in different parts of the city. 

The PMC has found three water sources in the form of streams - Bavdhan, Vruddheshwar-Siddheshwar Ghat and under the new PMC extension wing. 

PMC Water Supply Department Chief Superintendent Engineer VG Kulkarni said, “Right now, we have information about three streams in the city. Besides that, we are appealing to NGOs and citizens to come forth with information regarding natural water sources, so that we can develop them. We can use the water for gardens and construction. After testing the water, we can use streams, dug well water for drinking or other domestic use.” 

Kulkarni said, “During construction of the new wing of the PMC administration building, we found a stream. We decided to test the water. After that, we can decide to use the water for drinking or for toilets in the building.” 

Concerning Bavdhan area, Shailendra Patil, who works with NGO Jal Biradari said, “We have found a stream in Bavdhan area. It is flowing into a nearby nala. According to GSDA, around 1 lakh litres per day is going into the nala. If we test and use this water, it can be used either for domestic purpose or for drinking, based on the test report. I am pursuing this issue with the PMC for last one year.”

Patil further added, “However, nothing has happened yet. Now, I am expecting a positive response from the PMC against the backdrop of water problem the city is facing.”