Mumbai is grappling with a worsening water crisis as delayed monsoon rains have pushed reservoir levels down to just 10.35% of total storage capacity.

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has imposed strict conservation measures, including a 10% citywide water cut and suspension of water supply to swimming pools and construction sites.

Industrial and commercial establishments are facing a 20% reduction in supply. The city’s seven lakes, which provide most of Mumbai’s drinking water, have received poor inflows due to the sluggish monsoon and emerging El Niño conditions.

Authorities have banned the use of potable water for car washing, gardening and road cleaning, while encouraging recycled water use. Officials warn that further restrictions may be required if monsoon rains do not improve soon.