Bhima River Runs Dry Near Pune: Villagers Seek Tankers

A significant stretch of the Bhima river in Pune district has completely dried up, leaving villagers in Shirur taluka facing an unprecedented water crisis. At Vitthalwadi, residents recently required a water tanker to perform funeral rites, a stark indication of the severity of the drought. Many expressed shock, having never witnessed the riverbed so exposed this soon after the monsoon.

The situation has prompted worries about the future, with residents anticipating months ahead where water scarcity will impact fields, livestock, and daily consumption. While an upstream release of water from the Bhama Askhed dam was intended to replenish the river, its impact had not yet reached affected areas by October 27.

Concerns also extend to the aging weir at Pateethan in Daund taluka, which is crucial for irrigating agricultural land. The lack of a robust retaining wall makes its embankment vulnerable to damage during floods, a problem that has recurred annually. Temporary repairs have proven insufficient, leaving farmers uncertain about future irrigation supplies.

Farmers and residents are awaiting the water release from Bhama Askhed to alleviate the immediate crisis, emphasizing the vital role the river plays for both irrigation and their cattle. The ongoing uncertainty underscores the precarious water situation in the region.