Chandrapur: Around 125 industries spread across the Chandrapur MIDC area and Tadali Growth Centre are staring at a potential water crisis within a month as declining river flows and inadequate reservoir storage threaten industrial supplies.With only about 5 million cubic metres (MCM) of water currently available against an estimated requirement of 21 MCM, the shortfall could severely constrain industrial operations if supplies are not augmented.The warning was conveyed by Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) officials at a meeting with the association on Oct 21. Industries have been advised to prepare for possible supply constraints and adopt water-saving measures before the situation worsens.As per the minutes of the meeting, a copy of which is with TOI, the available water is barely 24% of the estimated requirement, leaving a gap of around 16 MCM. Chandrapur MIDC receives water from Wardha river system, supported by the Marda reservoir and upstream storage at the Dhanora jackwell. However, inflows into the reservoir are considerably lower than last year, while river flows have also declined.The Marda reservoir gates were closed on Oct 13 to facilitate water storage, and levels have since started rising gradually. However, water released upstream must also meet the needs of Warora, Bhadravati, Ghughus towns and other users before reaching the industrial area.Chandrapur MIDC Industries Association president Madhusudan Roongta said, “The water shortage is a serious concern for industries across Chandrapur MIDC and Tadali Growth Centre. We need urgent government intervention to ensure a reliable water supply and prevent the crisis from affecting industrial production.”To address the recurring shortage, the association will press the district administration and state govt to expedite the proposed balancing reservoir or barrage at Dhanora. Pending since 2013, the project has a detailed project report ready but awaits state-level approval. Industrial representatives have expressed willingness to contribute towards the project.Other proposed measures include completing sluice gates at the Dhanora buffer dam by August 2027 and seeking permission for an additional jackwell, with drinking water retaining priority.In the immediate term, MIDC has urged industries to review consumption, recycle water and eliminate avoidable wastage. Units have also been advised to explore reducing cooling-tower cycles from around 10 to three to five, potentially saving three to four tanker loads of water.With 125 industries potentially affected, the association is seeking urgent intervention to prevent water scarcity from disrupting production.
About The Author
