The Maharashtra government announced a mandatory 10% water cut for all urban and rural local bodies, effective October 16, after declaring drought in 265 of its 358 talukas.
State Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan said the cut comes amid a rainfall deficit that has left 74% of the state in a drought, with El Nino expected to worsen the crisis.
Mahajan also unveiled a dam‑wise emergency buffer plan that will keep an extra 10% of reservoir capacity in reserve until August 31 2027, while water earmarked for drinking, livestock and fodder will be protected.
Industries are now required to recycle at least 30% of the water they consume, and local bodies must redirect treated wastewater to gardening, construction and washing instead of fresh supply.
The water resources department will partner with revenue and police authorities to clamp down on unauthorized withdrawals from dams, rivers and canals, according to Mahajan.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said a central government team would visit the affected districts later this week to assess the situation and recommend assistance for farmers under disaster relief funds.