In a bid to bolster Mumbai’s water security amidst growing climate concerns, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has initiated a pilot aquifer mapping project along the Mithi river basin. The year-long study aims to assess groundwater quantity and quality, and pave the way for the development of new public recharge systems such as borewells.
Conducted independently by BMC’s Environment and Climate Change Department, the project aligns with the National Aquifer Mapping and Management Programme (NAQUIM) by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), although it is not part of the central study. Officials say this is the civic body’s first attempt at such a mapping initiative.
Mumbai currently relies entirely on surface water drawn from seven lakes located in Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, and Nashik. These reservoirs are replenished during the monsoon months, but in the event of poor rainfall over successive years, the city could face severe shortages. “Given Mumbai’s coastal nature, tapping into underground water is essential. But first, we must understand its salinity and availability,” a civic official said.
The pilot will begin in the Mithi river basin, one of Mumbai’s largest natural catchment zones, stretching 17.8 km from Vihar Lake through industrial, residential, and slum areas before draining into Mahim Creek. The study involves geophysical and geochemical surveys to examine soil, rock, and water samples, followed by thematic mapping to identify viable recharge zones.
The BMC has floated tenders worth over ₹25 lakh to procure equipment such as GPS devices, rain gauges, water quality testing kits, and water level loggers. If successful, the project may be expanded citywide, helping Mumbai reduce its reliance on distant surface water sources and build a more resilient, decentralised water infrastructure.
Source: The Free Press Journal
