Mumbai Lake Levels Surge to 89% Capacity

Mumbai has witnessed a significant improvement in its water reserves, as the lake levels supplying the city have surged to 89.1% of their total capacity. This marks a notable 7% increase in just 24 hours, reflecting the substantial impact of recent rainfall on the region’s water resources.

Data from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reveals that the total water stock across the seven key lakes reached 12.9 lakh million litres by Sunday morning, up from 11.9 lakh million litres (approximately 82%) the previous day. This surge in water levels has brought the total storage to nearly the same level as observed on August 4, 2022, although it significantly surpasses the 2023 levels which stood at 11.5 lakh million litres or 79.3% of the total required amount on the same date.

The recent uptick in water levels is attributed to an early onset of the monsoon and a substantial increase in rainfall. In response to an initial stagnation of water stock, which had fallen to 5.9% of the required capacity, the BMC had previously implemented a 10% water cut across the city and drawn additional water from reserves. However, the ongoing wet spell has alleviated these concerns. The lakes of Tulsi, Vihar, Modak Sagar, and Tansa have already overflowed, leading the BMC to lift the water cut restrictions.

The latest development sees the Middle Vaitarna lake, located in the Palghar district, becoming the fifth lake to overflow. The BMC has opened two gates of the dam by 10 cm, allowing water to be discharged at a rate of 706.30 cusecs, further boosting the city’s water reserves. This recent rise in water levels not only secures Mumbai’s water supply but also highlights the efficacy of the monsoon season in replenishing crucial water sources.