Pune: The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) is set to convert the Khadakwasla to Fursungi canal into an underground canal, with plans to assume control over the canal’s land. A detailed drone-based survey will soon be conducted to facilitate this transition.
In August, the state cabinet gave the green light to the Fursungi tunnel project for the Khadakwasla right-bank canal. This project, with an estimated cost of Rs 2,190.47 crore, aims to enhance irrigation and drinking water supply for Pune, while promoting better water conservation and resource management.
The project entails constructing a tunnel originating from the Khadakwasla Dam and extending to Fursungi. The initiative, which faced prior delays, is now set to commence with environmental clearance in its final phase. The design and alignment phases are progressing, with private contractors tasked with the execution.
The section from kilometre 1 to kilometre 34 of the right-bank canal lies within the PMC’s jurisdiction. Over the years, this stretch has faced challenges such as encroachments, unauthorized slums, pollution, and water wastage. The proposed tunnel is expected to mitigate these issues, conserving around 2.18 TMC of water for both irrigation and non-irrigation purposes. This will restore water access to about 3,471 hectares of previously deprived farmland.
Currently, the canal land is under the Water Resources Department, with ongoing discussions to transfer it to PMC. Post-transfer, the civic body plans to optimize land usage while implementing measures to prevent future encroachments.
To assist in project planning, PMC has commissioned a drone-based survey to be conducted by Monarch Survey and Engineering Consultants Pvt. Ltd. The survey, with an allocated budget of Rs 1 crore, has Rs 50 lakh earmarked for this financial year, with the remaining funds to be allocated in upcoming budgets.
Speaking on the initiative, PMC City Engineer Prashant Waghmare stated, “Once the land is under PMC’s control, we aim to utilize it optimally. Proposed developments include cycling tracks, roads, and parks.” The survey will help determine the feasibility of these projects and guide the planning process.
This project is seen as a vital step toward sustainable urban development and improved water resource management in Pune.
