Mumbai Braces for 11-Day Water Cut: 10% Reduction in Supply from January 27
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has announced a significant water cut affecting large parts of Mumbai, marking the second such restriction within a week. Starting from January 27 and continuing through February 7, residents in the island city and eastern suburbs will experience a 10% reduction in water supply for eleven consecutive days.
Extensive Impact Across Key Areas
This water cut will impact 12 municipal wards that collectively house nearly half of Mumbai's population. The affected regions span both the historic island city and the densely populated eastern suburbs, creating widespread inconvenience for millions of residents.
Island City Areas Affected:
- Churchgate, Colaba, and Cuffe Parade (A ward)
- Dongri and Bhindi Bazar (B ward)
- Kalbadevi and Chirabazar (C ward)
- Byculla (E ward)
- Lalbaug and Sewri (F South ward)
- Parel and Antop Hill (F North ward)
Eastern Suburbs Impacted:
- Mulund (T ward)
- Bhandup, Mahim, Kanjurmarg, and Vikhroli (S ward)
- Ghatkopar (N ward)
- Kurla (L ward)
- Govandi, Mankhurd, and Tilaknagar (M East ward)
- Chembur (M West ward)
Maintenance Work at Pise Dam Drives Restrictions
Civic officials have clarified that this water cut is necessary to facilitate essential maintenance work on the pneumatic gate system at the Pise water dam. The pneumatic gate system represents a crucial water control mechanism that regulates both the flow and level of water within the dam, playing a vital role in maintaining appropriate floodwater levels.
These specialized gates operate using compressed air to support steel gate panels, requiring periodic maintenance to ensure optimal functionality. During the maintenance period from January 27 to February 7, water supply will not operate at full capacity to prevent spillage and wastage.
Second Water Cut Within a Week
This announcement represents the second water cut imposed by BMC within just seven days. Earlier, the civic body had implemented a 44-hour water cut from January 20 to 22 across several parts of the city, creating a pattern of water supply disruptions that has raised concerns among residents.
An official explained the technical reasoning behind the current restrictions: "During the maintenance, supply will not be carried out in full capacity to avoid spillage and wastage of water, and a ten percent cut will be implemented. As a result, citizens have been requested to use water cautiously during that time."
Phased Supply Implementation and Regional Impact
The official further elaborated on the operational adjustments: "The supply of water will also be carried out in a phased manner so that there is no wastage in the quantum of water when the valves are being opened for repair and maintenance work. As a result, the pressure of water supply will also be low."
Beyond Mumbai, similar 10% water cuts will be implemented in parts of neighboring Thane and Bhiwandi, indicating the regional significance of the Pise dam maintenance work. This coordinated approach suggests the maintenance affects water distribution across a broader metropolitan area.
Residents across the affected areas are advised to plan accordingly and implement water conservation measures during this eleven-day period to minimize inconvenience. The BMC's consecutive water cut announcements highlight the ongoing challenges in maintaining Mumbai's complex water infrastructure while serving its massive population.
