Water Crisis – Kharghar Residents Struggle as Tanker Dependence Increases

Water Crisis –  Residents in several parts of Kharghar, one of Navi Mumbai’s fastest-growing residential hubs, are facing severe water supply problems as shortages continue to disrupt daily life. Multiple housing societies across the locality have reportedly turned to private water tankers to meet basic household needs amid inadequate municipal supply.

Rapid Development Raises Pressure on Civic Services

Over the past few years, Kharghar has witnessed large-scale urban expansion led by City and Industrial Development Corporation. The node has seen the development of several major public infrastructure projects, including a large golf course, Central Park, an international-level football stadium, and the Kharghar-Turbhe subway project. Plans for an international business district have also been proposed for the area.

Despite this rapid transformation, many residents claim that essential civic infrastructure, particularly water distribution systems, has not expanded at the same pace as residential growth. Citizens say the increasing population and rise in new housing projects have placed immense pressure on the existing supply network.

Sectors 30 to 38 Among Worst-Hit Areas

According to local residents, sectors between 30 and 38 are experiencing the most severe shortages. Reports indicate that Kharghar currently requires nearly 80 million litres of water per day, but the actual supply falls short by around 10 MLD. The gap has created persistent supply disruptions in many societies, especially during peak usage hours.

Many residential complexes have reportedly installed motor pumps to draw additional water, while others are spending heavily on private tankers. Residents say this has increased monthly maintenance costs and caused uncertainty regarding regular water availability.

Dependence on Tankers Continues to Rise

At present, Kharghar receives water through the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation supply network along with allocations from the Hetwane Dam project. However, residents argue that the current distribution is insufficient to support the growing population in the locality.

Sources familiar with the issue stated that CIDCO has sought additional water allocation from the municipal authorities. However, a final decision regarding increased supply is reportedly still pending before the Municipal Commissioner.

Housing societies say tanker dependency has now become routine rather than temporary. In some areas, residents are forced to manage strict water usage schedules, while others face interruptions in supply during mornings and evenings.

Earlier Assurances Spark Fresh Concerns

The issue has also triggered political reactions in the past. Former BJP corporators had earlier organised protests against CIDCO, demanding immediate measures to address the shortage. Following those protests, CIDCO had reportedly assured residents in writing that no new water connections would be approved until the supply situation improved.

However, several citizens now allege that the commitment was not enforced after the elections, leading to continued approvals for new developments despite existing shortages. Residents believe this has further worsened pressure on the already strained infrastructure system.

With summer demand expected to remain high and urban expansion continuing across Navi Mumbai, residents are now urging authorities to implement long-term solutions instead of relying on temporary tanker arrangements. Many citizens have called for faster upgrades to water infrastructure and clearer planning to ensure that future growth does not deepen the crisis further.