June 30, 2025: As the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) nears completion and the Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA) continues rapid expansion, authorities have initiated a large-scale water augmentation strategy across Raigad district. With projected demand expected to peak by 2050, the initiative aims to future-proof the region’s water infrastructure in support of long-term urban growth.
The augmentation plan includes enhancing existing resources such as the Hetawane Dam while accelerating major new projects, including the Balganga and Kondhane dams. Officials overseeing the project emphasise a phased approach to expanding capacity—balancing short-term needs with long-term sustainability. These efforts are crucial to supporting development surrounding NMIA and the broader airport-linked zone.
Water demand across the region is forecast to reach 1,275 million litres per day (MLD) by 2050. To meet this, authorities will draw from a network of sources, including Hetawane, MJP, NMMC, and MIDC, along with upcoming supply channels. The Kondhane Dam, positioned along the Ulhas River, will initially supply 250 MLD, with a planned increase to 350 MLD to ensure consistent delivery across CIDCO-administered areas.
While the construction of the Balganga and Kondhane dams is expected to take four to five years, additional interim allocations from the Hetawane and Nhava-Sheva schemes will help bridge short-term gaps. The Hetawane augmentation itself is being executed in four phases, with completion targeted by mid-2029. Key elements include water tunnels, raw and treated water pipelines, and a new treatment plant.
International consultants have been engaged to ensure adherence to global benchmarks across tunnelling, treatment efficiency, and urban connectivity. Together, the Hetawane and Kondhane schemes will underpin a robust, sustainable water grid serving NMIA, NAINA, Panvel, and future development under the “Third Mumbai” vision. This integrated water strategy is more than infrastructure—it’s a foundational lifeline for Maharashtra’s airport-driven urban transformation.
Source: Urban Acres
