The Maharashtra Cabinet has granted approval for the estimated ₹6,394.13 Crore Poshir water project.
This ambitious undertaking represents a crucial investment in bolstering the critical water supply infrastructure for the sprawling Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) and its rapidly expanding satellite cities. The decision underscores the state’s proactive approach to addressing the burgeoning demand for a fundamental resource vital for the development of eco-friendly, gender-neutral, and equitable urban centres. The core of this transformative initiative involves the construction of a substantial dam on the Poshir River, strategically located near Kurung village in Karjat taluka of Raigad district. Engineered for long-term water security, the dam is projected to boast a total capacity of 12.344 TMC (Thousand Million Cubic feet). A significant portion, 9.721 TMC, will be allocated for usable storage, meticulously divided to serve distinct, yet equally critical, needs: 7.933 TMC dedicated to drinking water supply and 1.859 TMC reserved for industrial applications. This careful apportionment reflects a balanced approach to resource management, supporting both residential well-being and economic development.
Upon completion, the Poshir water project is set to become a vital lifeline for a vast urban populace. It will supply water to key urban agglomerations including the core Mumbai Metropolitan Region, Navi Mumbai, Ulhasnagar, Ambernath, and Badlapur. This widespread distribution ensures equitable access to clean drinking water for millions of residents, directly impacting public health outcomes and enhancing the quality of life, particularly for women and children who often bear the brunt of water scarcity in underserved areas. Furthermore, the provision of a reliable water source to industrial zones is imperative for sustained economic growth and the establishment of more productive, potentially zero-net carbon, manufacturing ecosystems. The project’s financing model reflects a pragmatic approach to large-scale infrastructure development. The capital cost will be proportionately shared among the beneficiary institutions, promoting a sense of ownership and ensuring equitable funding contributions from all stakeholders. The Konkan Irrigation Development Corporation has been designated as the executing agency, tasked with streamlining the project’s implementation on a deposit basis. This streamlined execution is crucial for delivering timely and efficient infrastructure augmentation in alignment with the region’s dynamic urbanisation trajectory.
The approval of the Poshir project comes at a critical juncture for the MMR, a region that has witnessed unprecedented demographic growth and is increasingly susceptible to the impacts of climate variability on water resources. Investing in robust and expanded water infrastructure is not merely about meeting present demand but is a foundational element of urban resilience against future environmental challenges. By securing a long-term water supply, Maharashtra is actively fortifying its cities against potential water crises, a core tenet of building truly sustainable and livable urban environments.
Ultimately, the Poshir water project transcends its engineering marvel; it embodies a commitment to the fundamental well-being of the region’s inhabitants and its economic future. By ensuring a consistent and equitable supply of water for both domestic and industrial consumption, Maharashtra is laying down essential groundwork for cities that are not only economically vibrant but also environmentally conscious and socially just. This strategic investment is poised to enhance the quality of life for millions, paving the way for a more resilient, sustainable, and prosperous Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
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