ABOUT
Urban Waters – Pune
Pune, one of India’s fastest growing urban centers, gets its water primarily by reservoirs on the Mula, Mutha and Pavana rivers. While the city enjoys relatively high per capita water supply, distribution remains unequal, with fringe areas facing shortages. In some parts, declining water tables can be noticed. Pune generates more than 700 MLD of wastewater, much of which enters the Mula-Mutha untreated. This is despite the presence of several sewage treatment plants. Pune also experiences frequent floods during monsoons. The city faces contamination of surface and groundwater due to poor storm water and wastewater integration.
Pune is also home to various initiatives like community-driven rainwater harvesting units, and lake rejuvenation. As the city expands, and new industries come up in the region, the challenge lies in mainstreaming these decentralized, nature-based approaches. Simultaneously, robust governance, equitable access, and water sensitive planning across new developments also need to be ensured.
