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.
The construction of the project began in October 2021. It was initiated to address water contamination and man-made leakages, while also enhancing the water supply force.
The first breakthrough of the tunnel between Ghatkopar and Wadala was completed in September 2022. Following this, the second phase commenced, culminating in a breakthrough in June of this year.
The tunnel’s cost is estimated at Rs 940 crore, with full water supply expected to begin in 2026.
With the completion of the tunnel, Mumbai will have a 100 kilometres underground water tunnel network. Presently, New York has the highest water tunnel network in the world at 111 kilometres. Mumbai’s first water supply tunnel was constructed in 1955.
Features of the tunnels
As per a report by The Indian Express, the tunnels are positioned at least 100 meters below ground level, in contrast to pipelines, which are typically only 3 to 5 meters underground. With diameters ranging from 2 to 5 meters, these tunnels can carry a larger volume of water at higher pressure.
Due to their greater depth, these tunnels are protected from damage during roadworks or other civil infrastructure projects.