Mumbai will face water cuts of at least 10 per cent from October 16. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation announced the cuts on October 7.

The Modak Sagar reservoir, a key source for the city, is only 70 per cent full. Poor rainfall this monsoon has left stocks low across lakes. The city also recorded 37.6 degrees Celsius in a heatwave spell, which raised demand.

Officials said the cuts will continue until reservoir levels improve. Housing societies have been asked to fix leaks and avoid waste. Tanker supply will be stepped up in the worst-hit areas.

Citizens criticised the civic body for acting late in the season. The BMC said it is monitoring the situation daily. A review meeting is planned next week. The BMC said a long-term plan to cut water losses is under preparation. Citizens were asked to report leaks in their areas. Officials said the next review will decide if the cuts need to be raised.

The city’s lakes depend on monsoon rain for recharge. The city has faced similar cuts in past weak-monsoon years. Civic activists said rainwater harvesting must become mandatory for new buildings.