India, Oct. 2 -- Pune district has recorded 1,040 mm of rainfall so far this monsoon, reflecting a 12% surplus over the seasonal normal of 931.6 mm, while the city itself received 116% of its average rainfall. Yet, several areas continue to depend heavily on water tankers, highlighting the city's persistent supply problems despite adequate rainfall.

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) deploys between 1,450 and 1,500 tanker trips daily, each costing the civic body Rs.1,241. Officials admit that the high demand is placing pressure on the municipal budget while also exposing the gaps in the city's water distribution system.

In the old city areas alone, about 268 regular and 193 additional trips are made daily to meet the demand. The depen...