Amid the ongoing strike called by the Mumbai Water Tanker Association (MWTA), the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has decided to take over most private tankers and groundwater sources under the Disaster Management Act, 2005, thereby ensuring that the supply of water via tankers resumes on Monday. The MWTA, meanwhile, told mid-day it is considering approaching the court to stay the civic body’s hand.

Civic chief Bhushan Gagrani confirmed the development, telling mid-day, “The BMC is taking over the tanker water supply.” Despite efforts by the BMC, tanker operators refused to resume their services. As the city reels under the intense summer swelter, a serious question has arisen regarding essential water needs. Considering this situation, and in the public interest, the BMC administration has opted to implement the Disaster Management Act, 2005, to resolve this issue. Also, under Sections 34(a) and 65(1) of the Act, the BMC administration has decided to take over and manage the supply of essential services through private tankers, civic officials told mid-day.