Mumbai's Powai Lake Water May Be Used For Drinking As BMC Plans Advanced Purification Study Amid Water Concerns

Mumbai's BMC is planning to study the potential use of Powai Lake water for drinking purposes, following plans to enhance purification technology at the lake. The aim is to utilize the lake water for drinking and other civic uses as soon as possible, provided the technology proves feasible and meets water quality standards. This initiative comes after ongoing rejuvenation works at the lake, which include addressing sewage inflow, desilting the lake, and clearing water hyacinth.

In July, BJP corporator Prakash More had moved a notice of motion, seeking the usage of treated lake water. The BMC responded that it was actively working towards tackling sewage inflow, desilting the lake, and removing water hyacinth. Among the lake's 18 culverts and several seasonal streams, some have been identified as sources of sewage discharge. The civic body is in the process of closing these inflow points and ensuring proper sewage treatment.

The NGO Green Yatra has been tasked with evaluating the feasibility of desilting and IIT Bombay has provided guidance on methods and silt disposal. The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) is aiding in protecting aquatic life and biodiversity, as stated by the BMC.

To facilitate any future use of lake water, purification upgrades are being considered only after the aforementioned works are completed. The water quality and technical feasibility will be critical factors in this decision. A senior civic official added that the use of lake water, if approved, will be subject to these conditions.

Currently, Powai Lake, a 557-acre lake with a 10.2-km perimeter and a storage capacity of 5,455 million litres (ML), supplies around 10.3 million litres (ML) of non-potable water daily. This water is used by Aarey Milk Colony for gardening and cattle feed, and by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) for industrial purposes. It's worth noting that Powai Lake water is not suitable for drinking at present.

Mumbai draws its water from seven lakes, including Tulsi, Vihar, Bhatsa, Tansa, Modak Sagar, Upper Vaitarna, and Middle Vaitarna, which are located across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and parts of Thane, Nashik, and Palghar districts. The BMC has mentioned that available water stocks could last until May next year, with potential extension until September 2027, given the 10% cut in place.