Heavy monsoon showers have pushed most major dams in Maharashtra to 90–100% capacity, but authorities have clarified that no major water release is planned for now. Despite active monsoon conditions and widespread rainfall, irrigation officials say storage levels remain under control and precautionary steps are being taken.
Khadakwasla, Ujani dams closely monitored
At the Khadakwasla dam complex, live storage has touched 90%. “Except Khadakwasla itself, all other dams in the complex have crossed 90% storage. At present, we do not intend to release water, though a controlled discharge from Khadakwasla may happen if inflows increase tomorrow,” said Shweta Kurde, executive engineer.
Meanwhile, the Ujani dam has surpassed its full capacity, recording more than 100% storage and expected to rise to 105% shortly. “We will begin releasing 5,000 cusecs of water tonight, but levels will be maintained at 105%. No significant release is planned, and upstream dams too are holding back water,” said Raosaheb More, executive engineer of the project.
IMD warns of heavy rain, red alert issued
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), multiple weather systems are active across the country, fueling widespread rainfall. A low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal is set to intensify into a depression and cross the Odisha Andhra coast by August 19. In addition, a shear zone and a western disturbance are further influencing rainfall patterns.
Maharashtra has been receiving heavy showers, particularly in Vidarbha and Konkan regions. The IMD has issued a red alert for coastal belts and ghat areas in Pune, Satara, and Kolhapur districts, warning of extremely heavy rainfall over the next 24 hours before conditions are likely to ease.
Pune sees rain after dry spell
After weeks of scanty rain, Pune city recorded 29.7 mm rainfall on August 18, according to IMD data. Ghat regions also saw a sharp increase. However, the city continues to face a large August rainfall deficit just 41.4 mm so far against the normal 145.5 mm for the month.