BMC May Invoke Disaster Management Act Amid Ongoing Tanker Association’s Strike News24 –

BMC is likely to take control over the Mumbai Water Tankers Association (MWTA) due to the water shortage issue in Mumbai. To revoke Central Ground Water Authority Guidelines of 2020, the MWTA suspended the water supply from April 10.

“The corporation is considering to overtake operations of all water tankers and wells. From slums settlements to high-end residential complexes, to commercial establishments and all private and government offices in Mumbai City and Suburbs are facing water shortage since the MWTA went on strike.” said BMC Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani as quoted by The Free Press Journal.

BMC Commissioner Gagrani also extended the deadline to apply for approvals under Ground Water Authority rules until June 15. However, the association insists on repealing the guidelines. They have stated that until their demands are granted, they will not restore water tanker service in Mumbai. Given the crisis-like scenario, the BMC is now expected to take over operations of all water tankers and wells in Mumbai.

The CGWA rules were established to minimise over-extraction of groundwater and promote sustainable use. They require users to get no-objection certificates (NOCs), install digital flow metres, and provide frequent reporting. However, tanker operators complain that the regulations are too strict and expensive for small and medium-sized businesses, making compliance nearly impossible.

The MWTA has asked that the 2020 standards be completely repealed, and services will not restart unless the government intervenes. Water shortage worsens. Mumbai is currently experiencing one of the most acute water problems in recent years. The city, which generally gets its water from seven lakes, is already facing a shortage due to low rainfall during the 2023 monsoon.