Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) Commissioner Dr Kailas Shinde has urged citizens to use drinking water judiciously in view of the possible impact of El Niño on rainfall this year.
The appeal was made during the adjourned general body meeting of the civic body held in April, in the presence of Mayor Sujata Patil and corporators.
Water availability and projections
Presenting the current water supply situation, the commissioner stated that Navi Mumbai receives water from the Morbe dam as well as the Barvi dam. The total storage capacity of Morbe dam is 190.890 million cubic metres (MCM), of which 82.557 MCM (43.24 per cent) is currently available.
After accounting for one month’s reserve, the usable water stock stands at 51.957 MCM (27.22 per cent). Based on the city’s daily consumption, the available stock is expected to last until August 7, 2026, or approximately 103 days.
Impact of ‘El Niño’ on rainfall
Referring to weather forecasts, the commissioner noted that El Niño conditions could affect the monsoon, with rainfall expected to be around 92 to 94 per cent of the average. He added that based on past data, the Morbe dam region requires around 3,500 mm of rainfall annually to reach full capacity.
Between 2007 and 2025, the average annual rainfall in the region has been recorded at approximately 3,617 mm. However, with the current year’s projected rainfall estimated at around 3,327 mm, the likelihood of the dam reaching full capacity appears limited.
Call for public cooperation
In view of the situation, the commissioner appealed to elected representatives to encourage citizens to adopt water-saving practices and prevent wastage.
Residents have been advised to avoid using potable water for washing vehicles, ensure that storage tanks do not overflow, and exercise caution in daily consumption.
Long-term planning concerns flagged
The commissioner also underlined the need to take a forward-looking approach, noting that water management for the coming year must be considered alongside the current situation. Given the uncertainty around rainfall patterns due to El Niño, officials stressed that both immediate conservation and long-term planning would be critical.
Appeal for wider civic participation
The commissioner also sought cooperation from citizens in other civic initiatives, including cleanliness drives under the Swachh Survekshan, monitoring of dangerous structures, voter list revision programmes, and upcoming census activities.
Emphasis on collective responsibility
Officials reiterated that while the civic administration continues to undertake necessary measures for water distribution and management, citizen cooperation remains essential to ensure adequate supply through the season.
The appeal, placed before the general body, is expected to be taken forward by elected representatives at the local level through awareness and outreach among residents.
