Mumbai Dams Reach Over 50% Capacity: Rainfall Boosts Water Reserves

The recent rainfall in Mumbai and its surrounding areas has significantly increased the water levels in the seven dams that supply the city, leading to a substantial boost in water storage.

Significant Increase in Water Storage

As of Monday, the seven dams that supply water to Mumbai—Urdhwa Vaitrana, Modak Sagar, Tansa, Madhya Vaitrana, Bhatsa, Vihar, and Tulsi—have reached 53.12% of their total storage capacity. The rainfall on Monday alone added 21 days' worth of water to these reservoirs, ensuring a steady supply for the coming months.

Current Water Levels

The total storage capacity of these seven dams is 14.47 billion liters. Currently, they hold approximately 7.69 billion liters. The individual storage levels are as follows:

Tulsi Lake: 100% full

Tansa Dam: 91.55% full

Vihar: 88.40% full

Modak Sagar: 75.46% full

Bhatsa Dam: 52.07% full

Madhya Vaitrana: 47.03% full

Urdhwa Vaitrana: 18.43% full

Impact of Recent Rains

The heavy rains in July have played a crucial role in replenishing these reservoirs. The continuous downpour has led to significant water percolation from the surrounding mountains, further increasing the dam levels. This has resulted in a storage amount sufficient for 192 days, providing a much-needed respite from water shortages.

Daily Water Supply

Mumbai relies on these dams for its daily water needs, receiving 3,850 million liters per day. Additionally, Thane, Bhiwandi, and Nizampur municipal areas receive 150 million liters daily from these sources.

Potential for Cancelling Water Cuts

Due to a decrease in water storage earlier, the Mumbai Municipal Corporation implemented a 10% water cut on June 5. With the current increase in water levels, there is potential for these cuts to be reconsidered. However, the municipal administration remains cautious, noting that unless August brings further heavy rainfall, the water storage levels may not increase substantially.

Conclusion

The recent rains have significantly boosted Mumbai's water reserves, bringing relief to the city. The municipal administration is closely monitoring the situation and will adjust water supply measures as necessary to ensure a steady and adequate water supply for Mumbai's residents.