The Maharashtra government will enforce a minimum 10 percent water cut across all urban and rural local bodies from October 16, citing a deficient monsoon and El Nino-linked drought risks. Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan announced the decision on October 5.

“Drinking water will be given the highest priority,” Mahajan said. Municipal corporations, municipalities and gram panchayats have been directed to cut supply by at least 10 percent. The department has planned dam-wise and use-wise water allocations through August 31, 2027, keeping a 10 percent emergency buffer in each dam.

Local bodies must run sewage treatment plants at full capacity and redirect treated wastewater to gardening, construction and washing. Industries must reuse or recycle at least 30 percent of their water. Irrigation releases will come only after drinking water, livestock and fodder needs are met.

Pune’s civic body said it has not yet received the official order and will decide after it arrives. The city had briefly introduced alternate-day supply in June before withdrawing it after rainfall improved.