The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken a significant step towards bolstering Mumbai’s water infrastructure with the commencement of work on a 21-kilometer water conveyance tunnel connecting Thane to Mulund. This ambitious project, estimated to cost approximately Rs 4,500 crore, will enhance the city’s water supply capacity and resilience.
The tunnel, which will run underground at a depth of 110 meters, is expected to significantly reduce the risk of bursts and leaks that often plague existing pipelines. This is particularly important given the increasing number of development projects in Mumbai and Thane, which can damage ground-level infrastructure. The project is being executed in two phases, with the first phase connecting Kasheli to Mulund. This segment will complement the ongoing expansion of the Mumbai-Nashik highway, ensuring a reliable water supply to the growing region. In addition, the BMC will also construct a water tunnel from the Yevai Reservoir to Kasheli.
The construction of these tunnels is expected to take six to seven years to complete. Once operational, they will not only increase the city’s water supply capacity but will also improve the quality of water by minimizing the risk of contamination. The project has been allocated Rs 350 crore in the 2024-25 budget, reflecting the BMC’s commitment to investing in critical infrastructure. This initiative is part of a broader plan to modernize Mumbai’s water supply system and ensure a sustainable future for the city. The construction of the water tunnels marks a major milestone in Mumbai’s efforts to address its growing water needs. By investing in underground infrastructure, the BMC is taking a proactive approach to mitigating the risks associated with traditional pipeline networks and ensuring a reliable and efficient water supply for the city’s residents.
