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HomeInfrastructureMumbai Shifts Focus from Desalination to Gargai Dam for Water Supply Expansion

Mumbai Shifts Focus from Desalination to Gargai Dam for Water Supply Expansion

Mumbai Shifts Focus from Desalination to Gargai Dam for Water Supply Expansion

Mumbai’s water supply plans are undergoing a significant shift, with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) reconsidering its commitment to the desalination project and focusing its efforts on the Gargai dam project instead. The desalination plant, initially championed during the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government’s tenure, has encountered significant hurdles, including a lack of competition in the tender process, which ultimately led to its cancellation in September 2024. With only one company bidding, the future of the desalination project remains uncertain, and officials are now exploring other options to address Mumbai’s water needs.

The desalination project, initially valued at ₹3,600 crore, was intended to provide 200 million litres of water per day, with the potential to expand to 400 million litres. It was planned for construction at Manori, and was inspired by the city’s struggles with water scarcity in 2009, when Mumbai experienced a year-long water cut. However, with limited interest from contractors, the BMC is now turning its attention to alternative solutions, particularly the Gargai dam project, which is set to deliver far greater water supply capacity. The Gargai dam, located in Palghar district about 110 km from Mumbai, has been earmarked as a potential solution to the city’s long-term water supply issues. Estimated to cost ₹5,000 crore, the Gargai dam would provide an additional 440 million litres of water per day to Mumbai. Currently awaiting environmental approvals, the project is seen as crucial for meeting the city’s growing water demand. The BMC is also working to acquire land to compensate the state government for the 659 hectares of forest land required for the project. As part of the land acquisition process, the Forest Development Corporation of Maharashtra has agreed to provide 400 hectares of land near Wada in Palghar, which will be integral to the project.

Despite the optimistic outlook for the Gargai dam, there are still ongoing discussions about the role of desalination in Mumbai’s future. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Vishakha Raut stressed that water should not become a political issue and that both desalination and alternative water sources need to be considered. With unpredictable rainfall in recent years, Raut argues that such projects are essential for diversifying the city’s water supply.

On the other hand, environmentalists like Anand Pendharkar have voiced concerns about the environmental impact of large infrastructure projects like dams. Pendharkar points out that many countries are decommissioning dams in favour of sustainable alternatives, and he advocates for the increased use of rainwater harvesting and treated sewage water. For instance, in Chennai, rainwater harvesting is mandatory for old buildings, and Pendharkar suggests Mumbai should adopt similar measures to reduce reliance on traditional water sources.

From an economic perspective, the BMC faces challenges in terms of the cost of desalination. It costs approximately ₹40 to ₹50 to desalinate a thousand litres of water, while purifying dam water costs around ₹26 to ₹30. The city’s current water demand stands at 4,200 million litres per day, with a supply of 3,950 million litres, highlighting the need for additional water sources like the Gargai dam. Moreover, officials are working on expanding the use of treated sewage water for industrial and non-potable purposes, which could ease the pressure on potable water supplies.

The decision to prioritise the Gargai dam project reflects Mumbai’s urgency to secure long-term, sustainable water resources. While desalination may still have a role to play in the future, the city’s focus is now squarely on fast-tracking the Gargai project. With environmental approvals on the horizon and the acquisition of land underway, the dam could provide a significant boost to Mumbai’s water infrastructure, ensuring a reliable water supply for the city’s millions of residents.

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