Mumbai’s 10km underground water tunnel will transform supply to “these” areas – Know its cost, timeline, benefits

The project is a part of BMC’s 100 km-long water tunnel network.

August 17, 2024

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is constructing a 9.7 km-long underwater tunnel which will be a key source of water supply in Ghatkopar, Parel, and Wadala in the central and eastern parts of Mumbai.

The project is a part of BMC’s 100 km-long water tunnel network. It was conceived to curb cases of water contamination and manmade leakage, and to improve the water supply force.

The construction of this project commenced in October 2021. 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.

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 Due to heavy population density, the water supply pipeline became outdated with time and couldn’t maintain high pressure while supplying water.

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.

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.

Cost & Timeline:

The cost of this tunnel has been pegged at Rs 940 crore. The water supply is expected to be in full force from 2026.