Navi Mumbai’s development boom—powered by the upcoming international airport, NAINA corridor and mass housing—is placing unprecedented strain on water resources. To meet an estimated demand of 1,275 MLD by 2050, CIDCO has launched a comprehensive water supply management plan combining infrastructure upgrades and new source development.
CIDCO Vice‑Chairman and MD Vijay Singhal emphasised the holistic ethos: “As Navi Mumbai continues to grow, our commitment to sustainable water management remains unwavering… we’re building resilient water infrastructure for tomorrow.” Expert consultancies have been brought in to support the Hetawane augmentation scheme, ensuring global best practices in tunnel and treatment plant execution. The Hetawane Water Supply augmentation is progressing in four phases, targeting mid‑2029 completion. Current progress indicators show the water treatment plant at 41% complete, the raw water tunnel at 8.5%, and clean‑water tunnels at 25.7%. An immediate augmentation of 30 MLD has already been achieved via pressure‑conduit upgrades.
To bridge longer‑term demand, CIDCO is forging ahead with the Kondhane Dam project on the Ulhas River. Initially poised to deliver 250 MLD, capacity will expand to 350 MLD upon completion in the coming five years. Simultaneously, the proposed Balganga Dam will further enhance resource mix. Pending these additions, CIDCO has secured an augmented quota of 270 MLD from Hetawane, up from the previous 150 MLD (with 120 MLD added in August 2020 at a cost of ₹119.8 crore) . Integration with existing sources—including Morbe Dam (NMMC), MJP, NMMC, and MIDC reservoirs—reinforces supply resilience. The 2025–26 CIDCO budget earmarked ₹14,120 crore, including ₹1,120 crore for water projects, underscoring institutional priority.
However, residents have reported supply inconsistencies. Local posts detail pipeline bursts and intermittent cuts affecting New Panvel, Kharghar, Taloja, and Ulwe, sparking citizen complaints and social media outcry. These issues highlight the need for effective distribution alongside supply augmentation. CIDCO acknowledges the challenge. Maintenance shutdowns—such as the 24‑hour halts on April 9–10 for Hetawane plant repairs—have been accompanied by advance notices and coordination to minimise impact . The quick completion of pressure conduit works demonstrates responsiveness.
The multi‑dam strategy, budget backing, and expert oversight signal CIDCO’s intent to create a future‑proof, zero‑waste, and equitable water network. Yet residents’ experiences underscore that planning and execution must be matched by robust distribution infrastructure and real‑time service communication.
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