Panvel Water Crisis: PMC Plans To Buy 20 Water Tankers For ₹9.59 Crore To Tackle Supply Shortages

The Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) is planning to acquire 20 water tankers, each with a 10,000 litre capacity, in a bid to address the city's water shortages and supply interruptions. This move is estimated to cost Rs 9.59 crore and was proposed by the civic water supply department. The civic body is facing a daily shortfall of 35 million litres, which is expected to be discussed at the upcoming general body meeting.

Currently, CIDCO operates 28 tankers in several regions, making around 249 trips daily. The PMC already employs 10 tankers for village and gaothan areas, completing about 50 trips each day. The commissioner, Mangesh Chitale, noted that residents often complain about high charges and unclear quality of water from private tankers.

During summer, the demand for water increases, making it difficult for hired tankers to meet the requirement, leading to complaints from residents. The PMC is considering owning its own fleet of tankers to avoid the ongoing expenditure on hiring vehicles. The civic administration has invited market quotations and plans to purchase the tankers through an e-tender, depending on the corporators' decision.

This proposal comes as the city prepares to strengthen its water planning amid El Niño concerns. Although no water cuts have been imposed yet, officials and residents believe that advance planning is necessary to manage the available supply and meet future demand. Citizens have also urged the civic administration to promote water conservation, prevent wastage, and regulate water consumption by commercial establishments.