Although Nashik received good rainfall during the last monsoon, rising temperatures and increasing water usage are now causing a steady drop in dam water levels across the district. As of now, only 36.28% of water stock remains in the district's dams.
Gangapur Dam, the main source of drinking water for Nashik city, currently has 52.59% water storage. This is a 16% increase compared to the same period last year, when it had 42.66%. However, the dam has seen a 4% drop in just the past ten days, as it had 60.63% storage about three weeks ago. Last year on April 15, the entire Gangapur Dam complex held just 38.88% water, whereas it holds 52.59% this year—offering temporary relief for drinking water needs.
Tanker Supply Begins in Villages
Even though dam levels are better this year, water scarcity is emerging in some rural parts of the district. The administration has started water supply in 22 villages across seven talukas—Igatpuri, Malegaon, Chandwad, Peth, Surgana, Sinnar, and Yeola—with the help of 24 tankers, including 8 government and 16 private tankers.
In Malegaon taluka, water is being supplied to 15 villages through 5 tankers making 12 rounds daily. Similarly, in Yeola taluka, 12 fenyas (smaller water units) are supplying water to 12 villages, and one tanker is covering 11 Waddhambars.
To support this, seven wells have been acquired—5 in Malegaon and one each in Peth and Surgana—to meet local water needs.
Preparedness for Summer
In the past two years, the district had to rely on as many as 399 tankers during peak summer months. While the current water stock is higher, the rising demand and falling water levels are a concern. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely to ensure smooth water supply in the coming weeks.
The administration has appealed to citizens to use water responsibly and avoid wastage, especially as the summer heat continues to intensify.