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Maharashtra Faces Water Crisis: 10% Cut Imposed
5 Oct
Summary
- Maharashtra to implement a 10% water cut starting October 16.
- Drinking water remains the top priority, ensuring supply until 2027.
- Industries must reuse or recycle 30% of water used.
Maharashtra's government will enforce a minimum 10% water cut across all urban and rural bodies starting October 16, 2026, in response to a poor monsoon season. The state anticipates a potential drought-like situation and has planned water stock management until August 2027.
Drinking water is designated the highest priority, with assurances of supply even after accounting for evaporation and extraction. Local authorities have been instructed to minimize water leakage and maximize the use of treated wastewater for non-potable purposes. Industries are mandated to reuse or recycle at least 30% of their water consumption.
Water releases for irrigation will be secondary to drinking, livestock, and fodder needs. Rabi crops will receive priority, followed by other seasonal crops, with perennial crops permitted only if sufficient water remains. The government is also establishing joint teams with police to prevent and address unauthorized water extraction from water bodies.
