Changing City: Mumbai gets nearly 10 km-long underground water supply tunnel; Ghatkopar, Parel, and Wadala set to benefit

The 9.7 km-long project is part of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s 100 km-long water tunnel network. This project was conceived to curb cases of water contamination and manmade leakage, and to improve the water supply force.

The construction of this project started in October 2021 and the first breakthrough of the tunnel between Ghatkopar and Wadala was achieved in September 2022. Thereafter, the second phase was launched and the breakthrough was achieved in June this year.

Significance of the project

The Ghatkopar, Parel, and Wadala areas are located in the eastern suburbs and the central part of the island city. Due to heavy population density, the water supply pipeline became outdated with time and couldn’t maintain high pressure while supplying water.

Features of the tunnels

The tunnels are laid at least 100 metres beneath the ground level, unlike a pipeline which is just 3-5 metres underneath the ground level. Since the tunnels are laid deeper, they will not get damaged during road works or civil infrastructure works.

These tunnels have a diameter of 2 metres to 5 metres, allowing them to carry a higher quantum of water with increased pressure.

Major milestone

With the completion of this tunnel, Mumbai now has a 100 km underground water tunnel network. At present, New York has the highest water tunnel network of 111 km in the world. The first water supply tunnel was laid in Mumbai back in 1955 and with time the network grew.

Cost and timeline

The cost of this tunnel has been pegged at Rs 940 crore and water will be supplied in full force starting 2026.

Administration speak

Abhijit Bangar, Additional Municipal Commissioner, BMC, said this tunnel will be a game changer when it comes to water supply in Mumbai.

“Mumbai is an international city and the water-bearing infrastructure needs to be updated to be at par with modern global standards. The tunnels will not only improve water pressure but will also minimise the chances of contamination. The work of this project was carried out amid multiple adversities and didn’t stop for a day even during the pandemic outbreak,” Bangar told the Indian Express.