November 28, 2025: The long-pending tender process for the third phase of the Mithi River Revitalisation Project has finally concluded, with a company from the Adani Group chosen to execute the Rs 1,700-crore works. This phase includes key components such as constructing a protective retaining wall, developing a service road between CST Road in Kurla and Mahim Causeway, and laying an upgraded stormwater drainage channel.
The Mithi River gained prominence after the devastating 2005 floods during heavy rainfall. To address its long-term environmental and infrastructural challenges, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) launched the ‘Mithi River Revitalisation Project’ in 2019. The initiative aims to increase the river’s carrying and retaining capacity through measures such as deepening the channel, constructing a tunnel using Japanese technology, creating artificial lakes and wetlands, and ensuring consistent flow throughout the year.
Consultants appointed by the BMC submitted a technical and feasibility report recommending short- and long-term actions across four phases. However, the third phase had remained stalled at the tender stage for several years. After retendering and evaluating responses, the Adani company was finalised, despite bidding 7.7% above the BMC’s estimated cost — a difference expected to increase the civic body’s expenditure by an additional ₹100 crore. Sources confirmed that the corporation decided to move ahead given the urgency of the work.
Additional Municipal Commissioner Abhijit Bangar stated that the goal is to issue work orders promptly and begin the project before the Model Code of Conduct comes into effect. Under this phase, several crucial works will be undertaken, including interceptor gate pumps for sewage control and access roads along both banks to facilitate machinery movement. The plan also includes developing a Marine Drive–style pedestrian promenade as a public recreational space.
The Mithi River stretches 17.84 km, of which 11.84 km falls under the BMC’s jurisdiction and 6 km under the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA).
