The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is moving ahead with the Gargai Dam project, a major water infrastructure initiative aimed at strengthening Mumbai’s long-term water security. Once completed, the project is expected to add 440 million litres per day (MLD) to the city’s water supply network, helping meet growing demand from residential, commercial and industrial sectors.
Planned on the Gargai River in Wada taluka of Palghar district, the project is among the largest investments in Mumbai’s water infrastructure in recent years. The civic administration is expected to award the primary construction contract to Soma Enterprises following an extended tendering and evaluation process.
While the initial construction contract was negotiated at approximately Rs 3,276 crore, the overall project cost has risen to over Rs 5,100 crore after factoring in taxes, rehabilitation measures, environmental commitments and supporting infrastructure works.
The project involves the construction of a 69-metre-high dam and a water tunnel that will connect the proposed reservoir to the existing Modak Sagar Reservoir, allowing additional raw water to be channelled into Mumbai’s supply system. Officials consider the project essential as the city continues to witness population growth, urban expansion and increasing pressure on existing water resources.
Mumbai currently depends on seven lakes and reservoirs for its water needs. The Gargai project is expected to be the first major addition to the city’s supply network since the commissioning of the Middle Vaitarna Project in 2014.
The project also carries significant environmental and social implications. Construction activities are expected to affect six villages, while nearly three lakh trees will require transplantation. Authorities have proposed compensatory afforestation measures and rehabilitation plans for affected residents within Wada taluka.
With a targeted completion date of 2029, the Gargai Dam is expected to play a critical role in addressing Mumbai’s future water requirements and supporting the metropolitan region’s continued growth.
Source: Prop News Time
