Mumbai and Maharashtra are bracing for water cuts from October 16, as a weak monsoon and drought conditions strain reservoir levels across the state. Reports say household water supplies will be reduced by at least 10 per cent, with deeper cuts possible if conditions worsen.

Modak Sagar, a key water source for Mumbai, has seen its stock drop to around 70 per cent, highlighting the severity of the situation. Other lakes in the city’s supply system have also recorded lower storage than last year.

State minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule assured on October 7 that aid for drought-hit farmers would be provided before Diwali. The state government is expected to review the situation as the festival season approaches.

The cuts underline a recurring challenge for the city. Even in years of decent rainfall, distribution constraints and rising demand keep Mumbai’s water security fragile. Residents have been urged to use water judiciously.