Palghar’s Deharji Medium Irrigation Project, one of Maharashtra’s most ambitious water infrastructure efforts, has now reached 80% completion, marking a major milestone in the state’s mission to secure long-term water supply for millions.
Led by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) in collaboration with the Konkan Irrigation Development Corporation (KIDC), the dam is being constructed on the Deharji River, a tributary of the west-flowing Vaitarna, near Suksale village in Vikramgad, Palghar.
Project Highlights
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Storage Capacity: 95.60 million cubic metres
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Usable Capacity: 93.22 million cubic metres = 255 MLD (million litres/day)
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Dam Length: 2,450 metres
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Height: 71.6 metres
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Type: Earthen dam with gated spillway (4 gates, each 12m x 6.5m)
(source-mid day)
Once completed by the end of 2027, the Deharji Dam will significantly enhance drinking water availability in Vasai-Virar (190 MLD), CIDCO Palghar (50 MLD), and rural en route areas (15 MLD).
A Vision of Water Security and Sustainability
Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, Metropolitan Commissioner of MMRDA, emphasised that Deharji isn’t just an engineering feat—it’s a long-term commitment to sustainable regional development.
“The project is designed to store over 93 million cubic metres of potable water. Alongside the Surya project, it’s part of MMRDA’s broader strategy to address the Konkan region’s critical drinking water needs with eco-sustainability at the core.”
The detailed project report (DPR) for the bulk drinking water supply scheme from Deharji’s storage is currently being prepared, with field surveys and technical studies underway.
A Statewide Effort, A Regional Impact
Backed by ₹2,599.15 crore of financial assistance from MMRDA under a Memorandum of Understanding with KIDC, the construction was originally awarded to M/s PVR Projects Ltd in 2006. Now, nearly two decades later, the effort is nearing the finish line.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis praised the project’s progress, calling it
“A milestone in water security for the state” and underlined its potential to “enhance quality of life in Palghar and beyond.”
Deputy CM and MMRDA Chairman Eknath Shinde echoed this sentiment:
“The Deharji project represents the government’s resolve to strengthen rural infrastructure. It will not only fulfill daily water needs but also empower social and economic growth in the region.”
The Deharji Medium Project comes at a time when climate variability and urban expansion are stretching water systems to their limit. With coordinated leadership and timely implementation, it stands to become a blueprint for future water infrastructure in Maharashtra.
As the dam nears completion, it holds the promise of quenching the thirst of growing cities, reviving rural livelihoods, and serving as a reservoir of progress for generations to come.
