Solapur district, currently experiencing severe drought conditions, has witnessed a shift in the weather patterns with the arrival of Rohini followed by heavy rainfall from Mrig Nakshatra. The water levels in Ujani Dam, a crucial resource for the district thanks to rainfall in the Bhima Valley, are gradually rising. However, the inflow of water from the upper Pune district into Ujani Dam has decreased by half to 4867 cusecs within three days.
Anticipated heavy rainfall in the Ujani catchment area could bring further relief. Last year, inadequate monsoon rains resulted in Ujani Dam reaching only 60.66% capacity. Subsequently, due to insufficient water management during the prolonged drought period, the dam water levels plummeted into the negative range in January. The water levels had dropped rapidly to minus 60%, but recent rainfall in the Bhima Valley has initiated water discharge through the dam's spillway.
The influx of approximately 8,000 cusecs of water has aided in boosting the dam's water storage. Nevertheless, the reduced discharge to 4867 cusecs has caused concern among Solapur residents. The dam's water levels have improved from minus 60% to minus 55.88%, indicating an increase of nearly four percent, equivalent to around two TMC, in just three days. The current water storage stands at 33.72 TMC in the dam.
Rainfall from Mrig Nakshatra has been consistent, particularly benefiting the Ujani area over its catchment zone. Regions like Madha (163.9), Pandharpur (173.6), Mohol (228.9), South Solapur (109), and other areas along the Bhima river are receiving steady rainfall, leading to a rise in water levels across various areas, including Pandharpur. In the previous month, five TMC of water was released from Ujani Dam to cater to the water needs of Solapur, along with Pandharpur, Mangalvedha, and Sagola areas.
Thankfully, this year's rainfall has replenished lakes, dams, and the Bhima river, with two dams in Pandharpur already overflowing. Water experts suggest that with proper water management, it may not be necessary to release water from Ujani Dam into the Bhima River again for the upcoming Ashadhi Yatra in Pandharpur scheduled for July 17.