Mumbai: BMC Clears ₹2,241-Crore Tunnel Project For Manori Desalination Plant After Standing Committee

BMC Standing Committee approved a Rs 2,241.3-crore tunnel project for the Manori desalination plant, awarding the contract to M/s Afcons Infrastructure Ltd.

The 7.2-km underground tunnel will carry 200 MLD of desalinated water initially, with capacity for 400 MLD after future augmentation, connecting from Manori to Charkop and Mahavir Nagar.

Corporators raised concerns over water quality, technical feasibility, and the tendering process, including the 16% contingency fund provision.

Additional Municipal Commissioner Abhijeet Bangar defended the project, stating desalinated water will meet Bhandup Water Treatment Complex standards and the tunnel design allows for future capacity expansion.

The project is scheduled to begin in August 2026, with expected completion in 45 months and commissioning by December 2029.