Mumbai, India – September 9, 2026
Mumbai’s municipal corporation (BMC) has kept a 10 % water cut in place even though the city’s seven major reservoirs are 96 % full, citing weak September rainfall and the risk of pressure on reserves if the month remains dry. The decision was announced at a Standing Committee meeting on Wednesday, where corporators from multiple parties demanded a rollback ahead of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival.
The BMC’s Additional Municipal Commissioner Vipin Sharma explained, “Mumbai’s lakes are currently 96 % full, but rainfall has been below expectations and another weak September could put pressure on reserves. Available water stock needs to be conserved and used judiciously.” He added that the civic body would review lake levels after September and explore additional sources such as wells and springs.
Corporators from the Shiv Sena (UBT), BJP, MNS and Congress raised concerns about the impact of the cut on households, especially in slum areas and older British‑era pipeline networks prone to leakages. Shiv Sena corporator Shivkumar Jha warned that “the water emergency is real for Mumbaikars, and the cut threatens daily life during the upcoming festivals.” MNS leader Yashwant Kiledar echoed the sentiment, urging elected representatives to address the supply woes.
The BMC is mapping its 5,500 km of water pipelines to identify sections requiring replacement and is studying the feasibility of tapping additional wells and springs. The corporation also plans to monitor lake levels closely throughout October, hoping for replenishing rains.
Key Figures
- Reservoirs: 96 % full (13.95 million L of 14.47 million L)
- Water cut: 10 % (in place since May 15, 2026)
- Expected rainfall: below‑normal for September, according to the Indian Meteorological Department.
Sources
- Free Press Journal, "Mumbai: BMC Refuses To Roll Back 10 Per Cent Water Cut Despite 96 Pc Stock, Cites Weak September Rainfall", September 10, 2026. URL:
- BMC Official Statement, Press Release, September 9, 2026.
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