Civic panel clears ₹2,241-crore desalination tunnel project

The BMC standing committee approved a ₹2,241-crore proposal for a 7.20-km underwater tunnel connecting the Manori desalination plant to Mumbai's water network in Kandivali.

The tunnel will integrate desalinated water from the 200-MLD Manori plant into the city's distribution system, with the plant designed for future expansion to 400 MLD.

The project was approved by the Maharashtra government on July 3, 2026, and is scheduled to start in August, with completion estimated in 45 months.

The proposal includes design, construction, operation, and maintenance of the tunnel from Manori pumping station to Charkop and Mahavir Nagar in Kandivali.

During the committee discussion, questions were raised about restricting the project to Indian contractors, the 16% escalation provision, technical specifications like mild steel vs. RCC lining, and safety assurances for desalinated water.