The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is considering advanced water purification technology to explore whether Powai Lake’s water can eventually be used for drinking. The assessment will begin after ongoing rejuvenation measures are completed, with any decision dependent on technical feasibility and prescribed water quality standards.
The initiative comes amid concerns over Mumbai’s water availability. In July, BJP corporator Prakash More submitted a notice of motion proposing the use of treated lake water for civic requirements.
Lake restoration takes priority
The civic administration is currently focusing on preventing sewage from entering the lake, removing accumulated silt and clearing water hyacinth. According to the BMC, some of the 18 culverts and several seasonal streams surrounding the lake discharge sewage into the water body.
“Of the 18 culverts and several seasonal streams around the lake, some discharge sewage into it. The BMC is working to stop the inflow and ensure sewage treatment. NGO Green Yatra has been appointed to assess desilting feasibility, with IIT Bombay advising on methods and silt disposal and the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) helping protect aquatic life and biodiversity,” stated the BMC.
Two harvesting machines are also being deployed to remove water hyacinth and floating waste.
A senior civic official said, “We will consider advanced purification technology or upgrades to existing treatment infrastructure only after these works are completed, with any future use of lake water subject to technical feasibility and water quality standards.”
Existing supply and storage capacity
Spread across 557 acres, Powai Lake has a perimeter of 10.2 kilometres and an estimated storage capacity of 5,455 million litres. It currently provides approximately 10.3 million litres of non-potable water daily. Aarey Milk Colony uses the supply for gardening and cattle feed-related activities, while Larsen & Toubro (L&T) uses it for industrial purposes. The water is presently unsuitable for drinking.
Mumbai’s wider water supply
The city receives water from seven lakes: Tulsi, Vihar, Bhatsa, Tansa, Modak Sagar, Upper Vaitarna and Middle Vaitarna. The BMC estimates that available stocks could last until May 2027, potentially extending to September 2027 if the existing 10% supply cut continues.
The proposed study could help identify an additional water source, provided treatment requirements and safety standards can be met.
Source: The Free Press Journal
