A Reservoir of Progress: Deharji Medium Project Achieves 80% Completion Milestone

Mumbai, 17 May 2025:In a major milestone for Maharashtra’s water infrastructure development, the Deharji Medium Irrigation Project in Palghar district has achieved 80% physical completion, according to a progress report released by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). Designed to ensure long-term water security for the Konkan region, the project is expected to be completed by end of 2027.

Spearheaded under the leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Devendra Fadnavis and Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister and MMRDA Chairman Shri Eknath Shinde, the Deharji Project is being implemented by the Konkan Irrigation Development Corporation (KIDC) with financial assistance of ₹2,599.15 crore from MMRDA. Metropolitan Commissioner Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee is overseeing the project’s strategic execution.

Key Features of the Deharji Project:

• Location: Deharji River, a tributary of the Vaitarna River, near Suksale village, Taluka Vikramgad, District Palghar.

• Type: Earthen dam with gated masonry spillway.

• Total Storage Capacity: 95.60 million cubic meters (Mcum).

• Usable Storage: 93.22 Mcum (equivalent to 255 MLD – Million Litres per Day).

• Dam Length & Height: 2,450 meters long and 71.60 meters high.

• Spillway Gates: Four gates, each measuring 12m x 6.5m.

MMRDA is also preparing a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for a bulk drinking water supply scheme from the dam. Surveys and fieldwork are currently underway through appointed technical consultants.

Water Allocation:

Out of the 255 MLD of usable water:

• 190 MLD is reserved for Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation (VVMC).

• 15 MLD for en route rural areas.

• 50 MLD for CIDCO’s Palghar region.

The water will cater to key users including VVMC, CIDCO, and the District Council of Palghar — significantly strengthening drinking water supply and enabling regional development.

Leadership Speaks:

Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra, stated:
“The Deharji Medium Project marks a major step forward in our mission to provide water security for every citizen. It is a testament to our commitment to building sustainable infrastructure and improving the quality of life in Palghar and surrounding regions.”

Shri Eknath Shinde, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister and MMRDA Chairman, added:
“This flagship initiative will ensure reliable drinking water supply across the Vasai-Virar belt and Konkan hinterland. MMRDA and KIDC’s collaboration underscores our resolve to fast-track infrastructure solutions for inclusive growth.”

Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA, commented:
“The Deharji Project, alongside the Surya Project, represents our forward-thinking approach to water management. Our goal is not just to meet today’s demands, but to create long-term ecological and social resilience.”

A Vision for Sustainable Growth

Once completed, the Deharji Dam will be a cornerstone in the water infrastructure of the Konkan region, offering a sustainable, high-capacity solution for the rising potable water needs of urban and rural communities. Beyond infrastructure, the project also represents a commitment to equitable resource management, environmental stewardship, and economic upliftment.