Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed officials to accelerate work on the Gargai Dam project in Palghar district, with the state government setting a target to make the ambitious water supply project operational by May 2029.
Fadnavis reviewed the progress of the project during a meeting held at Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai. He said that construction activities for the dam have been expedited and, once completed, the project will play a crucial role in strengthening Mumbai’s long-term water security and meeting the requirements of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
The Gargai Dam project is estimated to cost Rs 3,065 crore. The project includes the construction of the dam, a water tunnel, 22 rehabilitation-related infrastructure facilities and a power generation unit. Costs related to land acquisition, rehabilitation, compensatory afforestation, payment for forest land diversion and consultancy services will be handled separately from the main construction contract.
Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation Plans
The project will impact approximately 844 hectares of land, comprising 186 hectares of private land and 658 hectares of forest land. The total area expected to be submerged due to the project is estimated at around 805 hectares.
Two villages, Ogda and Khodde, will be completely affected by the project, while Pachghar, Tilmal, Phansgaon and Amle villages will face partial impact.
Since 658 hectares of forest land will be submerged, nearly 1,400 hectares of land will be arranged for rehabilitation purposes. Additionally, land parcels across different districts of Maharashtra are being provided to the Forest Department for carrying out compensatory afforestation activities in place of the forest area affected by the dam.
Several key approvals required for the project have already been obtained, including clearances from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, approval from the National Seismic Design Standards Committee, technical approvals for the project design and environmental clearances. The process of obtaining clearance from the National Board for Wildlife is currently underway.
During the review meeting, Fadnavis instructed officials to speed up rehabilitation, afforestation and construction activities linked to the project. He also emphasised the need to ensure timely implementation of environmental protection measures and proper rehabilitation arrangements for affected communities.
The Gargai Dam project is expected to become an important component of Mumbai’s future water infrastructure, helping address the city’s growing demand for reliable water supply.
Source: The Free Press Journal
