As the temperatures spike, the residents of Mumbai`s Khar Danda Koliwada are reeling under a severe water crisis that has disrupted daily life and raised serious concerns about basic civic infrastructure. What was once an intermittent issue has now become a persistent problem for locals.
Residents across the locality identify water scarcity as their most urgent concern. While some infrastructure upgrades, including pipeline improvements, are underway, many remain skeptical about whether these efforts will ensure a stable and reliable supply.
Residents forced to rely on tankers, go days without water
Rakhi Ambekar (38), a homemaker residing near Ram Mandir, described the severity of the situation, saying that the shortage has persisted since last monsoon.
“We sometimes rely on water tankers. Currently, water supply is available for barely an hour. Just recently, we had no water for two to three days,” she said.
Ambekar added that she is unsure whether formal complaints have been lodged, as she lives in a rented accommodation. During peak summer, the situation becomes so dire that her family often temporarily leaves the city.
“Even when water comes with proper pressure, it takes about 15 minutes to fill our tanks,” she noted, highlighting the inefficiency of supply.
Although she clarified that the water quality remains clean and has not caused health issues, she emphasised that low pressure remains a constant challenge.
Irregular supply and quality concerns persist
Dhanashree Khare (26), a resident of Warinpada, echoed similar concerns. Having lived in the area for over two decades, she noted a steady decline in water availability over the past two to three years.
“People here have registered complaints with the BMC, but no action has been taken,” she said.
Khare acknowledged that a recently installed pipeline has somewhat improved the situation. However, disruptions continue.
“Every alternate month, there is still a water cut for one to two days,” she added, while also raising concerns about poor water quality in her area.
Low pressure identified as key issue
Local civic representatives have acknowledged the gravity of the crisis. According to BMC corporator Chintamani Nivate, low water pressure is a primary factor affecting supply in areas such as Gazdhar Bandh and Khar Danda.
“Even if water is supplied for a few hours, insufficient pressure prevents it from reaching several households,” he said, adding that similar issues are being reported across Mumbai.
BMC corporator Chintamani Nivate inspects a pipeline work site in the area. Pic/Special Arrangement
Civic authorities promise improvements
Officials from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) maintain that corrective steps have been taken. According to a civic official, water supply duration has been extended from the earlier 5 pm–8 pm schedule to now continue until 10 pm.
However, residents on the ground report that the extended timings have not fully resolved the issue, particularly due to inconsistent pressure.
The official attributed the temporary low pressure to occasional water cuts, stating that normal supply is usually restored within a day or two and that the situation will require continued monitoring.
Water crisis emerges as top civic concern
While issues such as cleanliness and infrastructure persist, water scarcity has emerged as the defining civic challenge in the area. Residents are increasingly demanding a consistent supply, better pressure management, and stronger accountability from authorities.
With expectations mounting, local representatives have assured that focused efforts will be made to address the crisis.
“My aim is simple – people should get proper water every day without facing these recurring issues,” Nivate said.
