Mumbai to face 5% water cut from May 30, 10% from June 5 amid dwindling reservoir levels

Mumbai, facing a critical water shortage with only 10 percent of usable water stock in its reservoirs, will see a 5 percent water cut starting May 30, as announced by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Saturday. This measure is set to escalate to a 10 percent cut from June 5 to ensure the water supply lasts as long as possible.

These reductions will also impact water supplied to the Thane Municipal Corporation and Bhiwandi Nizampura Municipal Corporation. As of May 25, the dams supplying water to Mumbai hold 1,40,202 million liters, which is only 9.69 percent of the annual requirement of 14,47,363 million liters.

This decision follows an earlier statement by civic chief Bhushan Gagrani on May 7, assuring that the city's water stock could last until July 31. The BMC is closely monitoring the water levels and managing the daily supply to maximize the current reserves.


The BMC emphasized that the water cuts will remain until sufficient rainfall replenishes the reservoirs. Citizens have been urged to use water judiciously, and the administration has recommended measures such as washing clothes in machines and avoiding showers. Restaurants have been advised to serve water only upon request.

The reduction in water stock is partly due to lower-than-expected rainfall in October 2023, resulting in 5.64 percent less stock compared to previous years. Despite this, additional water will be sourced from the Bhatsa and Upper Vaitarna dams, and the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted an on-schedule monsoon this year.