Under the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA), work is underway to prepare a detailed project report for the bulk drinking water supply scheme, utilising the water storage available from the Deharji Medium Project. Survey and other fieldwork, being carried out by a technical consultant, are in progress
The project is scheduled for completion by the end of 2027.
Metropolitan Commissioner, Dr Sanjay Mukherjee, said that the Deharji Medium Project, a key water infrastructure initiative in Palghar district, has achieved a significant progress.
Located on the Deharji River, a tributary of the west-flowing Vaitarna River, near Suksale village in Palghar's Vikramgad, the project involves the construction of an earthen and masonry dam with a total storage capacity of 95.60 million cubic metres and usable storage of 93.22 million cubic metres, equivalent to 255 million litres per day (MLD).
The project is being carried out by the Konkan Irrigation Development Corporation (KIDC) with a financial assistance of 25,99.15 crore from Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). KIDC had initially awarded the execution contract to M/s PVR Projects Ltd on July 27, 2006, and MMRDA is working on a detailed project report for the implementation of bulk drinking water supply scheme through this dam.
Highlights of the project:
• Proposed earthen and masonry dam with a storage capacity of 95.60 million cubic metres on the Deharji River.
• Usable storage capacity: 93.55 million cubic metres (255 MLD - million litres per day).
• Dam length: 2,450 metres; height: 71.60 metres.
• Dam type: Earthen dam with gated spillway.
• Spillway gates dimensions: 12m x 6.5m (Four gates).
Current status:
The physical progress of the Deharji Medium Irrigation Project as of May is approximately 80 per cent.
The project is set for completion by the end of 2027.
Under MMRDA, work has been taken up to prepare a detailed project report for the bulk drinking water supply scheme for the water storage available from the Deharji Medium Project. Survey and other fieldwork under the technical consultant are in progress.
Benefits:
The Deharji Dam will provide a water storage capacity of 93.55 million cubic metres (255 MLD), of which 190 MLD is reserved by the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation (VVMC), 15 MLD for en route rural areas, and 50 MLD for CIDCO Palghar region.
The project is positioned to significantly improve water storage for regional development and support socio-economic growth in the Konkan region through sustainable and resilient water resource management.
“The Deharji Medium Project marks a significant milestone in the Government of Maharashtra’s agenda to strengthen core infrastructure and ensure long-term water security for the state. By constructing a sustainable, high-capacity dam, the project directly supports the supply of potable water and enhances the quality of life for citizens in Palghar and surrounding regions. I commend the coordinated efforts of MMRDA and KIDC in driving this critical initiative forward in a timely and efficient manner,” CM Devendra Fadnavis said.
Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and MMRDA Chairman, Eknath Shinde, stated, “The Deharji Medium Project is a flagship initiative under the Government of Maharashtra’s broader vision to enhance water security and strengthen rural infrastructure. MMRDA’s strategic collaboration with KIDC underscores our commitment to delivering long-term, sustainable drinking water supply solutions. Once completed, the project will play a crucial role in meeting the potable water needs of Vasai-Virar and surrounding areas, significantly improving quality of life and driving social development across the region.”
According to Dr Mukherjee the project is set to strengthen the water infrastructure of the Konkan region. "Designed to store 93.22 million cubic meters of potable water, the project reflects MMRDA’s proactive efforts to address regional water challenges. Alongside the Surya project, MMRDA is preparing a detailed water supply plan to support the social and economic development of the region. By addressing critical drinking water needs with a focus on eco-sustainability, MMRDA is not only meeting present demands but also building long-term resilience. We remain committed to the successful execution of this project, ensuring lasting benefits for both the environment and the communities it serves,” he said.
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