Maharashtra is considering a proposal to divert water from Mulshi Dam towards drought-hit areas in eastern Pune and Solapur districts. The plan includes a tunnel estimated to cost ₹400 crore to ₹500 crore, which would carry water into the Mula-Mutha and Bhima river basins.
The proposal has received in-principle approval from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, according to Daund MLA Rahul Kul. However, final approval, funding and the project’s technical details are yet to be settled.
Five TMC of Water Could Be Made Available
Mulshi Dam water is primarily used for power generation before flowing westward. The proposal would reduce the release used for electricity generation and redirect some of the water eastwards.
The plan could make around five TMC of water available for areas facing shortages. It is expected to support drinking water needs, irrigation and livestock, while additional water flowing into the Bhima could also help replenish the Ujani reservoir, which serves parts of Solapur district.
Funding and Implementation Still Unclear
The project’s estimated cost is ₹400 crore to ₹500 crore, but the funding arrangement has not been finalised. The state government may provide the money, or funds could be raised through transferable development rights (TDR).
The tunnel would also require decisions on its route, capacity and technical feasibility. Authorities will need to assess how reducing water releases for power generation could affect electricity production.
Interim Proposal to Release Water Through Rivers
Because the tunnel could take time to approve and build, officials are also considering a shorter-term option: releasing water directly into river channels. Kul has pursued this proposal and written to the state government seeking action.
Under the suggested route, water would flow through the Mula-Mutha and Bhima rivers before reaching Ujani Dam. The release could help villages along the river system and improve groundwater levels, although the amount and timing of any release have not been confirmed.
A Proposal, Not a Final Decision
The plan comes amid water shortages affecting parts of Pune and Solapur districts. If implemented, it could provide support for drinking water and farming in drought-affected areas. But the tunnel remains a proposal, and its eventual benefits will depend on final approvals, funding, engineering decisions and water allocation.
