Mumbai: As rains take a break, lake levels dip

An overflowing Powai lake on June 13. Pic/Sameer Markande

The effect of excess rain on Mumbai's water-supplying lakes is washing off as the monsoon takes a break. The water stock had increased sharply due to rain in
early June.

But the dipping levels are cause for worry. There is 19 per cent stock available in the lakes, which is more than the level this time in the past two years but less than what it was in the years before that. The city was facing a water cut in both instances.

The city and the neighbouring area, where five of the seven water-providing lakes are situated, received good rain in early June and even in May due to Cyclone Tauktae. The water stock increased sharply. But as the rain receded in the last week, the stock became stagnant.

As of July 5, there is 19 per cent water stock which will be enough for 50 days. There are still three more months of monsoon, during which the BMC, relying on the IMD (India Meteorological Department) forecast, is expecting good rainfall.

Last year, the water stock dipped to eight per cent in the first week of July and the city faced a 20 per cent water cut. As the lakes started to overflow in August, the city has been receiving an uninterrupted water supply. But this is not the case every year. In 2015 and 2018, the water cut was in force for entire years until the next monsoon. Interestingly, the water stock was more in both those years than what it is now.

"It is too early to predict anything. The IMD forecasts a good monsoon and we have to wait for the next heavy shower. Last year, the lakes got full by August," said an officer from the Hydraulic Engineering Department.

Through the years: water stock on July 5
Year Water stock Water cut
2021 19% None
2020 8% 20% in August
2019 12% None
2018 27% 10%
(Nov to June 2019)
2017 44% None