What is threatening Pune's trees and birds?

A water tanker strike during a severe summer heatwave is threatening Pune's trees and birds, as many plantations depend on tanker water.

How much water do Pune's plantations need?

Large plantations like the Anandvan Reserve Forest require an estimated two lakh litres of water daily, while others need five to six tankers per day.

What alternative water solutions are being used in Pune?

Some groups are using treated recycled water from housing society sewage treatment plants, supplied via flexible pipes, to sustain saplings.

Home / Environment / Pune Trees Wilt as Tanker Strike Hits Water Supply

Pune Trees Wilt as Tanker Strike Hits Water Supply

16 Apr

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Summary

Water tanker strike threatens thousands of trees and birds on Pune's tekdis.
Summer heatwave increases demand for water, stressing existing supplies.
Environmental groups use recycled water and mulching to sustain saplings.

Pune Trees Wilt as Tanker Strike Hits Water Supply

Pune is facing a critical situation as a water tanker strike coincides with a severe summer heatwave, endangering thousands of trees and birds. The city's verdant hills, or 'tekdis,' which rely heavily on tanker water, are experiencing soaring temperatures, with some areas reaching nearly 42°C. This extreme heat is causing stored water for wildlife to dry up within 24 hours.

Afforestation initiatives, such as those by the Anandvan Foundation, require substantial daily water volumes, estimated at two lakh litres for 10,000 to 15,000 trees. The strike, which began recently, has halted this crucial supply, forcing organizations to store limited water reserves. Similarly, groups like Vasundhara Abhiyan Baner, which have planted over 55,000 indigenous saplings, need an estimated five to six tankers daily to sustain plants in rocky terrain during 40°C temperatures.