India, Sept. 27 -- The right canal of Khadakwasla Dam, which supplies water for drinking and irrigation to Haveli, Daund and Indapur talukas, has turned into a dumping ground for the city's sewage and garbage. Experts warn that the situation could soon make the water unusable for both farming and households.

The canal stretches 214km, of which 30km passes through the city and suburbs. This stretch is littered with plastic, rotting garbage, old clothes and construction debris. Sewage from nearby settlements is also discharged directly into the water. Wells that supply drinking water to several villages are located next to the canal, raising fears of contamination.

Health risks are mounting. Polluted water is seeping into the wells and fl...