Maharashtra Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan has directed all urban local bodies to implement a minimum 10% water cut from October 16 amid concerns over limited water reserves and reduced rainfall linked to El Niño.
The Water Resources Department has undertaken dam-wise and usage-wise water planning up to August 31, 2027, with drinking water given the highest priority.
A 10% emergency buffer will also be maintained in every dam, taking future uncertainties into account.
Local bodies have been directed to prevent water leakage and ensure that treated wastewater is used for gardening, construction and washing. Industries have been asked to reuse or recycle at least 30% of the water used.
For agriculture, water will be allocated for irrigation only after meeting drinking water, livestock and fodder requirements. Priority will be given to rabi foodgrain and fodder crops, followed by other rabi crops.
Joint teams of the Revenue, Police and Water Resources departments will take action against unauthorised water withdrawal from dams, rivers and canals, Mahajan said.