In light of growing water scarcity concerns, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has issued an official press release appealing to educational institutions, cooperative housing societies, hospitals, and hotels to adopt immediate and effective water-saving practices. The PMC’s Information and Public Relations Office released the appeal on May 6, 2025, emphasising that simple changes can help the city overcome the ongoing water shortage.
Here are the key directives and suggestions shared by PMC’s Chief Water Supply Engineer, Nandkishor Jagtap:
- Install Aerator Nozzles on Taps:
By fitting aerator nozzles, institutions can significantly reduce water wastage. The cost of installation is approximately Rs. 150 per nozzle, but it can reduce water tanker demand from 10 per month to just 7. - Ensure 100% Recharge of Borewells:
Nearly every plot has a borewell. PMC urges institutions to ensure complete groundwater recharge through rainwater harvesting systems. Those implementing rainwater harvesting are eligible for a 5% property tax rebate. - Boost Groundwater Levels with Recharge Pits:
Institutions should dig recharge pits measuring 5 feet (length) x 2 feet (width) x 3 feet (depth) at their entrances. These should be covered with rainwater drain grills. This method helps raise the water table for nearby borewells, wells, and ponds. - Use STP-Treated Water for Non-Potable Purposes:
Where available, institutions should utilise treated water from Sewage Treatment Plants (STP) for gardening, toilet flushing, and cleaning. This reduces dependence on potable water, and PMC offers support for such conservation efforts. - Avoid Using Rubber Pipes for Cleaning:
A significant amount of water is wasted when rubber pipes are used under high pressure to wash vehicles, roads, courtyards, and water plants. Institutions are encouraged to use borewell water and adopt buckets or mugs (like a jhari) for such tasks. - Fix Leaking Overhead Tanks and Fit Level Indicators:
PMC has observed that many storage tanks and overhead tanks leak or overflow. Prompt repair and the installation of level indicators can prevent this wastage. - Install Water Meters:
Every institution must demand water meter installation. If not installed, they should notify their local water supply department. Water meters help track consumption accurately and ensure that per capita water usage stays within the permissible limit of 135 litres per person per day. - Adopt the Water-Saving Slogan:
“Save Water During Shortage, Use Wisely, Spend Responsibly” – PMC urges all citizens to promote and follow this message. Pune is growing rapidly, and without proactive conservation, it could face crises similar to those already affecting other cities. - PMC to Conduct Spot Inspections:
The civic body will monitor whether institutions are adhering to the guidelines. Those found wasting water may face penal action. Strict implementation is expected across all sectors. - Responsible Use Will Help Merged Areas:
The water saved through careful use in urban Pune can then be redirected to provide drinking water to newly merged village areas within PMC limits.
The PMC’s appeal underscores the urgent need for collective responsibility and proactive conservation efforts to safeguard Pune’s water future.
Source & image: https://bit.ly/3F29g48
