MSRDC's Khandala Dam: A Lifeline for 71 Villages

The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has unveiled plans to construct a dam across a 186.72 sq. km area near Khandala to ensure a sustainable water supply for 71 villages located along the Mumbai–Pune Expressway.

This strategic initiative is aimed at addressing the region’s inadequate water infrastructure and supporting future growth. MSRDC will initiate a comprehensive feasibility study to identify suitable water sources for the proposed reservoir. The project area—previously under the Navi Mumbai Airport Influence Notified Area (NAINA)—has been under MSRDC’s jurisdiction as the Special Planning Authority (SPA) since March 2016.

The targeted zone spans Panvel and Khalapur talukas in Raigad district, which had a combined population of over 1 lakh (as per the 2011 Census), a number expected to have risen significantly. The region benefits from a strategic location, approximately 45 km from Mumbai, 80 km from Pune, and 20 km from Navi Mumbai. Despite the proximity of water bodies like the Morbe and Devloli dams and the Patalganga River, officials note that long-term water availability remains a concern.

A detailed project report (DPR) will be developed over the coming year. A technical consultant will also be appointed to oversee the bidding process, contract finalization, and technical evaluation.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.