Centre's Green Nod For Khadakwasla–Phursungi Tunnel; Rs 2,200-Crore Project To Supply Water, Irrigate 3,472 Hectares In Pune

The Union environment ministry has granted clearance for the 34-km Khadakwasla–Phursungi tunnel, Hindustan Times reported.

The project, approved on 11 August by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and its Expert Appraisal Committee, is designed to strengthen water supply to Pune and adjoining rural areas while cutting distribution losses.

The Maharashtra Water Resources Department has already floated tenders and awarded the contract.

Formal certification is expected shortly, after which work will commence.

The project is scheduled for completion within three years.

Of the 34 km stretch, nearly 28 km will be built as an underground tunnel, running 80 to 240 metres below the surface.

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Excavation will rely on controlled blasting, supported by six shafts along the alignment to accelerate progress.

The tunnel will feature a concrete lining and an internal diameter of five metres, ensuring durability and efficient water flow.

Estimated at around Rs 2,200 crore, the project is expected to save about 3 TMC of water annually by reducing leakage and evaporation, while also improving the canal’s carrying capacity to 1,510 cusecs.

Flow speed will increase by nearly one and a half times, ensuring faster and more reliable distribution.

Once operational, the tunnel will provide a significant boost to Pune city’s water supply and benefit surrounding rural regions.

Authorities project that 3,472 hectares of farmland will receive irrigation, enhancing agricultural productivity.

The combination of reduced wastage, increased capacity, and expanded reach makes this one of the most impactful water infrastructure initiatives in western Maharashtra in recent years.

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