Mumbra: Residents of Mumbra and Kausa staged a strong protest against an acute water shortage that has persisted for nearly three months. The agitation, held outside the local water supply office, was led by NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) leader Zafar Naumani, former corporator Shah Alam, social worker Neha Nasruddin Naik, Dr. Sangeeta Done, and others. Protesters accused officials of discrimination and demanded immediate restoration of water supply to affected areas.
The shortage has left thousands of families without access to drinking water. Residents are paying water taxes yet are forced to spend between Rs 1,800 and Rs 2,000 on tankers. “If residents fail to pay water tax, officials seize society motors. But when supply stops despite payment, no action is taken against officers. Why this double standard?” asked Zafar Naumani.
Locals also questioned why neighboring towns like Dombivli and Diva receive adequate supply while Mumbra remains dry despite overflowing lakes during the monsoon. Many accused the water department of serving private interests while neglecting public needs. Protesters shouted slogans against the civic body and warned of an intensified agitation if the crisis continues.
Residents highlighted the long-term issue of inadequate allocation. Naumani said Mumbra still receives 52 MLD from MIDC, the same amount supplied decades ago, despite massive urban growth. He demanded at least a 20 MLD increase to address permanent needs. Leaders announced plans to meet Water Supply Minister Gulabrao Patil to press for a lasting solution.
Executive Engineer Atul Kulkarni admitted that a pipeline choke near Qismat Colony had disrupted supply and assured that repairs were underway. He added that MIDC had been asked to allocate 50 MLD of additional water for Mumbra, Kalyan, and Diva. Residents remain skeptical until supply improves on the ground.
