Mumbai's Gargai Dam Project Awaits Crucial Clearances

Mumbai's civic body is seeking final forest and wildlife approvals for the Rs 3,105 crore Gargai dam project, crucial for addressing the city's increasing water demands. While approvals from tribal and dam safety agencies have been acquired, plans to issue tenders are advancing. Completion anticipates eased water shortages by 2040.

Mumbai's Municipal Corporation is eagerly awaiting forest and wildlife clearances from the Union government for its significant Gargai dam project, crucial in handling the city's growing water demand. Estimated at Rs 3,105 crore, the project has secured necessary approvals except for the final nod.

The forest and wildlife approvals are pivotal as a section of the dam will be built within the Tansa Wildlife Sanctuary. According to a BMC official, clearances from the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and the National Committee of Seismic Dam Safety have already been granted. The remaining approvals are expected in upcoming months.

Construction on the Gargai dam is projected to span three to four years post-approval. Once operational, the dam will supply Mumbai with 440 million litres of water daily. Forecasts indicate the city's water demand might reach 6,900 MLD by 2040, guiding BMC's plans to establish dams on the Gargai, Pinjal, and Daman Ganga rivers.

(With inputs from agencies.)