New Delhi: Mumbai’s water supply system came under severe strain on Monday after the Mumbai Water Tanker Association (MWTA) launched an indefinite strike, halting services provided by more than 2,000 water tankers across the city. The move has raised concerns of an acute water shortage for residential complexes, businesses and critical public facilities that rely heavily on tanker water.
The association, which supplies nearly 550 million litres of water daily—around eight per cent of Mumbai’s overall water requirement—announced the suspension from midnight on June 8. The strike comes at a particularly challenging time, with the city already facing a 10 per cent reduction in municipal water supply and reservoir levels under pressure ahead of the monsoon season.
According to the MWTA, the decision was triggered by the enforcement of Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) regulations governing groundwater extraction. In recent days, authorities have reportedly issued more than 250 notices to well owners, borewell operators and water suppliers, warning of action against those operating without mandatory permissions.
Under the CGWA framework, groundwater users must obtain a No-Objection Certificate (NOC), provide proof of land ownership, install tamper-proof digital flow meters and comply with water quality standards. Tanker operators argue that many of these conditions are impractical in a densely populated city like Mumbai and financially burdensome for smaller suppliers.
The impact of the strike is expected to be felt across housing societies, hotels, restaurants, construction sites and government establishments. Residents have expressed concern over reduced water availability, while hospitality industry representatives have warned of serious operational disruptions if the standoff continues.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has acknowledged that a prolonged strike could affect hospitals and other essential services. Political leaders have also weighed in, with opposition parties criticising the government’s handling of the issue.
The tanker association has sought intervention from the Maharashtra government and demanded discussions with authorities. Until a resolution is reached, Mumbai faces the prospect of worsening water shortages during a crucial period before the arrival of substantial monsoon rains.
