Ajit Pawar hints of water cuts in Pune

Pune: Deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar on Sunday said that the government would have to consider the harsh decision of water cuts in Pune if it does not rain till June 25 in the catchment areas of Khadakwasla irrigation system comprising of four dams providing water for Pune city and surrounding areas.

While speaking to media persons before a meeting at the mayor's bungalow in Pune, Pawar said, "We will wait till June 25 and if it does not rain we would have to think of a harsh decision." Pawar said that generally the Monsoon arrives in the first week of June and entire state gets rains in this month. He pointed out that this year there have been no rains in any part of the state and even Konkan region has not received rains yet which is a matter of concern.

Pawar said that as far as Khadakwasla irrigation system is concerned which has Khadakwasla, Panshet, Warasgaon and Temghar dams as part of this system, there is water available at present. He pointed out that there is enough stock of water which would be adequate till July 15 and for providing water after July 15, it is imperative that we get rains. He said that taking in to account advanced planning for the available water we would have to review the situation on June 25 and take an appropriate decision. He said that if it does not rain till June 25, we may have to go for a harsh decision.