₹290 Crore Plan to Pump Life into the Godavari River

The Water Resources Department (WRD) has unveiled a comprehensive plan to maintain a continuous flow of water in the Godavari River's eight-kilometre stretch through Trimbakeshwar by pumping water from the Gautami Godavari Dam to the Ahilyasagar Dam.

According to Nashik Collector Jalaj Sharma, the initiative is designed to secure Trimbakeshwar’s drinking water needs until 2050 and ensure consistent water availability for pilgrims, especially during major events like the Kumbh Mela. Once released from the Ahilyasagar Dam, the water will flow through Trimbakeshwar before returning to the Gautami Godavari Dam. Officials have emphasized that over 80% of the pumped water will be naturally restored, ensuring minimal long-term loss.

The project will utilize five 500 HP pumps and an 8-kilometre pipeline. Pumping will occur every Monday to meet increased demand from weekly pilgrimages, as well as during special occasions and religious yatras, totaling 38 pumping cycles during the dry season.

The estimated project cost is ₹290 crore, pending final approval and revision by state-level technical committees.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.