Is Mumbai Tap Water Safe To Drink?

No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.

Mumbai's tap water is treated and generally meets basic safety standards set by local authorities. However, occasional contamination can occur due to pipeline leaks or maintenance issues.

Water Sources
Drinking Fountains

Most residents use additional filtration (RO, UV) to ensure potability, especially for direct drinking. Boiling is also common practice to eliminate pathogens.

For sensitive groups, bottled or filtered water is recommended. Official tests show Mumbai water quality is improving but varies across locations and seasons.

Last checked: 2025-04-25

India is ranked as number 143 globally with a score of 25.6% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.

Source of Water in Mumbai, India

Mumbai's tap water primarily comes from surface water sources, including the Vaitarna, Tansa, and Bhatsa reservoirs. These are located outside the city.

Water is treated at multiple purification plants before distribution. The city relies heavily on these reservoirs to meet its large population's water demand.

Groundwater is minimally used due to salinity and pollution issues. Surface water remains the main reliable source for Mumbai’s municipal water supply.

Mumbai Drinking Fountains

Public drinking fountains in Mumbai vary in safety depending on maintenance and water source quality. Some may provide treated water, while others could pose contamination risks.

Regular cleaning and proper filtration are essential for safety. Without these, fountains can harbor bacteria or pollutants harmful to health.

Users should exercise caution and consider using personal water bottles or filtered water, especially in areas with inconsistent water quality management.

Drinking Water Map

Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Mumbai. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.

Nearby Places

About the Author

Hi, I'm Emily Hartman, a researcher and water quality specialist with a background in public health.

I've spent the last few years studying how everyday water systems impact our health, and I'm passionate about making that information clear and useful for everyone.

Safe, clean tap water isn't just my job — it's something I truly care about.

Disclaimer

* The information provided on this website regarding the safety of tap water in Mumbai is sourced from reputable sources such as the World Health Organization (WHO), local water authorities, and the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) from Yale University. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, it's important to note that water quality can vary over time and may be subject to factors beyond our control. Users are encouraged to verify the current water quality status with local authorities or consult additional resources before making decisions regarding water consumption. We disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the information provided on this website.