Ulwe Residents Cry Foul Over CIDCO's Water Crisis
As Ulwe, a burgeoning residential and infrastructure hub near the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, faces frequent water cuts and poor water quality, residents are growing increasingly frustrated with CIDCO's lack of preparedness and support.
CidcoUlweWater CrisisNavi MumbaiRainwater HarvestingReal Estate MaharashtraJul 15, 2025
“We’ve been facing frequent and poorly timed water cuts due to CIDCO’s pipeline problems — and they always seem to happen during festivals or holidays,” said Bhatt. “This time, the so-called 48-hour cut from July 9 to 12 started a day early on July 8 and continued till the 14th. And when the supply returned, it was muddy, discoloured, and barely a trickle — completely unfit for consumption.”
We had to hire submersible pumps and buy extra pipes to transfer water from the regular tank. Later, there were shortages of tankers, Bhatt added. Her residential society, like many others in Ulwe, was forced to depend entirely on private water tankers for days. The timing of this crisis during the monsoon season, when water should be abundant, has baffled and enraged residents.
Local grocery shops reported shortages of bottled water, while elderly residents struggled to manage without any formal support from CIDCO. “Not a single potable water tanker was sent to our society. CIDCO knew about the disruption. What were the backup plans?” she asked. Ulwe has seen a population boom in the past five years, with more than 50,000 new families settling in, driven by affordable housing schemes and real estate pitches built around the “airport-adjacent smart city” promise. Yet, the infrastructure, especially the water supply, is failing to keep pace.
mid-day spoke to the residents across Sectors 8, 9, 17, 18, 19, and 23, many of whom reported the same sequence of events, like no advance notice of the water cuts, disruption lasting longer than announced, no emergency tanker service provided by CIDCO, and return of supply with low pressure and muddy, yellowish water.
“Why isn’t CIDCO prepared?” questioned Om Thakur, a resident of Sector 17. “They know it’s monsoon. They know there’s growing demand. Where’s the emergency protocol? Why aren’t societies being assisted with rainwater harvesting setups?” Health professionals in the area have also raised alarm over rising skin infections and stomach issues, possibly linked to the compromised water quality.
An MBBS doctor from Sector 17, on the condition of anonymity, said, “I have seen a surge in complaints of rashes and hair thinning from people using tanker water.” Yet, despite repeated complaints, CIDCO’s response has been minimal and vague. A senior CIDCO official, when contacted, said, “The pipeline repairs required longer downtime due to valve and mainline complications. We regret the inconvenience and are planning a restructuring of the sector-wise supply network.” However, the official did not address the lack of emergency water supply or whether any quality checks are done on private tankers. Residents believe the issue runs deeper than just technical glitches.
“There’s a systemic gap,” said environmental activist Sagar Pawar. “We are building thousands of homes but not investing in basic water planning, storage, purification, or public notification systems. We’re creating vertical slums without sustainability.” With rainfall at its peak, many residents are now asking why CIDCO hasn’t offered incentives or infrastructure for rainwater harvesting, even as they face water shortages. “This isn’t a one-time inconvenience; it’s a growing civic disaster,” Bhatt said. “CIDCO must be answerable. Where is the plan to manage Ulwe’s present and future water needs? We have had enough apologies and temporary fixes.”
Advocate Varun Vij, a high court lawyer and a resident of Sector 17, said, “The appalling water crisis in Ulwe is a stark reflection of systematic failure and administrative ineptitude. Citizens, including the elderly and children, are left to endure inhumane conditions without prior intimation. Forced to rely on unregulated, hazardous sources for survival. This is not a lapse but a gross abdication of responsibility. Immediate, transparent, and lasting remedial measures are imperative. The right to water is fundamental. Its denial is a grave breach of public trust.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main issues residents in Ulwe are facing with the water supply?
Residents in Ulwe are facing frequent and poorly timed water cuts, muddy and discolored water, and a lack of emergency tanker service from CIDCO. These issues often occur during festivals or holidays, causing significant inconvenience.
Why is the water crisis in Ulwe particularly concerning during the monsoon season?
The water crisis is particularly concerning during the monsoon season because water should be abundant, yet residents are still facing shortages. This highlights the systemic issues with water management and infrastructure in the area.
What is CIDCO's response to the water supply issues?
CIDCO has acknowledged the issues and cited pipeline repairs as the cause for the extended downtime. They have expressed regret for the inconvenience and mentioned plans to restructure the sector-wise supply network, but have not addressed the lack of emergency water supply or quality checks on private tankers.
How are health professionals responding to the water crisis in Ulwe?
Health professionals in the area have raised alarm over rising skin infections and stomach issues, possibly linked to the compromised water quality from private tankers.
What are some proposed solutions to address the water crisis in Ulwe?
Residents and activists are calling for better water planning, storage, purification, and public notification systems. They are also advocating for incentives and infrastructure for rainwater harvesting to ensure a more sustainable water supply.
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