Panvel has outlined a long-term infrastructure development strategy with a strong emphasis on strengthening water security and improving transport connectivity, following a high-level review meeting chaired by MLA Prashant Thakur.
The meeting, attended by senior officials, elected representatives and Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC) functionaries, assessed the progress of major civic projects and discussed measures to meet the needs of the city’s rapidly growing population.
One of the key proposals reviewed was the Shilar Dam project, which is expected to play a crucial role in securing Panvel’s future water supply. Officials discussed various funding options through government schemes and financial assistance to accelerate the project. Once completed, the dam is expected to significantly augment the city’s water resources and support future urban growth.
The meeting also examined plans to increase the height of the Dehrang Dam to enhance its storage capacity. The proposal, which was previously discussed during the PMC General Body meeting, will move forward after detailed technical, environmental and administrative evaluations. Officials said the expansion could improve year-round water availability by enabling more efficient storage of monsoon water.
The progress of the Nhava-Sheva Water Supply Scheme (Phase III) was also reviewed, with officials describing it as a critical project to meet rising demand driven by new residential developments, industries, educational institutions and commercial establishments across Panvel. Pending work, technical issues and project timelines were assessed, with directions issued to ensure timely completion.
Traffic congestion at railway level crossings also featured prominently during the discussions. With vehicle numbers increasing across the city, officials were instructed to expedite the construction of railway overbridges at key locations to improve traffic flow, reduce delays and minimise economic losses caused by congestion.
Addressing the meeting, MLA Prashant Thakur said Panvel is rapidly evolving into a world-class urban centre, supported by landmark infrastructure projects such as the Navi Mumbai International Airport, Atal Setu, JNPT, Metro and new highway networks.
“The decisions taken today will lay the foundation for the city’s water supply and infrastructure for the coming decades,” Thakur said, while directing officials to ensure timely completion of projects related to essential civic services.
He also stressed the need for close coordination among departments to deliver infrastructure projects on schedule and improve public services.
The meeting was attended by Mayor Nitin Patil, Deputy Mayor Pramila Patil, Leader of the House Paresh Thakur, Standing Committee Chairman Baban Mukadam, corporators and senior civic officials.
Source: The Free Press Journal
