The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) is spearheading strategic water planning efforts with the guidance of seasoned experts in the water supply sector. Renowned for its Morbe Dam Project, a cornerstone in Navi Mumbai's water-rich legacy, the municipal corporation, led by Commissioner Rajesh Narvekar, is now focused on forward-thinking initiatives.

In a recent milestone meeting, a specialized committee comprising water supply sector experts convened to explore new water sources for Navi Mumbai's future requirements. This assembly, in its second session, meticulously reviewed the minutes of the inaugural meeting in June 2023, presenting valuable insights gathered by its members. Deliberations encompassed the current water supply status in NMMC, future projections for 2050 considering population growth, and diverse viewpoints from committee members.

Commissioner Narvekar provided crucial information, underscoring the intrinsic link between NMMC's development, population surge, and the inclusion of 14 villages in the future urban landscape. Considerations were also extended to the evolving landscape of Thane district and its impact on the water requirements for the burgeoning population.

A pivotal discussion centred around the prospect of CIDCO (City and Industrial Development Corporation), the entity responsible for planned urban development, formulating a collective proposal for Navi Mumbai, Panvel Municipal Corporation, and other CIDCO-developed regions. The meeting underscored the need for researching perpetual water sources to ensure a sustainable water supply.

In a concerted effort, CIDCO, Panvel Municipal Corporation, and NMMC explored the potential of jointly proposing to the government the diversion of water from the Kundalika River through the hydroelectric project at Bhira.

Chaired by Municipal Commissioner Narvekar, the meeting boasted the presence of key figures such as City Engineer Sanjay Desai, Additional City Engineer Manoj Patil, and seasoned committee members. The collaborative nature of the effort was evident with experts from prestigious institutions like V.J.T.I., I.I.T., and online participation from retired Chief Engineer of Water Resources Department, S.H. Waghmare, reinforcing the commitment to comprehensive water planning.