Pune: Asian Bank Offers Preliminary Approval To Finance Khadakwasla To Lonikalbhor Canal Tunnel Project – MLA Kul
Pune, 5th July 2023: The canal project from Khadkawasala to Loni Kalbhor will undergo a significant transformation as it will be constructed through a tunnel, which is estimated to cost around Rs 2,000 crore. This initiative, revealed by MLA Rahul Kul during a press conference held in Yavat, aims to save three TMC (Thousand Million Cubic Feet) of water. Kul further stated that the tender for the project will be released within the next three months.
Speaking at the conference, Kul emphasized the significance of the tunnel, stating that despite the substantial cost, the availability of three TMC of water is a significant achievement. He compared this water volume to that of a dam, underlining its importance. The width of the proposed canal ranges from 100 meters to 200 meters at various sections. Furthermore, a road can be constructed alongside the canal, offering additional benefits. Acquiring land for such a canal road would have incurred expenses of Rs 12,000 to 14,000 crore. Therefore, this project is deemed profitable, as water holds greater importance than money. The presence of black stone in the designated area enables the feasibility of this endeavor.
Kul also mentioned the progress made on other water-related initiatives. The “Baby Canal,” which has been beneficial to Daund taluka, has been lined between Mundhwa and Lonikalbhor. Despite the delay in lining from Loni to Patas, the Irrigation Department has agreed to undertake the work following a notice of infringement served by Kul. An expenditure fund of Rs 250 crore will be allocated for the remaining work, while Rs 200 crore will be spent on the Janai Yojana project. Additionally, the Shirsai area proposes to implement the scheme through a closed tube.
Efforts are underway to address water issues in Khuptewadi Phata, Vijaywadi Lake, Lalgewadi, Jiregaon, and Gaikwad Mala. A report on diverting water from the Mulshi Dam is currently being prepared, and a decision on it is expected within the next 3-4 months, as per Kul.
The Asian Bank has shown interest in financing three projects, namely tunnel (between Khadakwasla Dam and Lonikalbhor) with an estimated cost of Rs 2,000 crore, Janai Yojana with Rs 200 crore, and the Baby Canal project with Rs 250 crore. The bank has provided preliminary approval for these initiatives, according to MLA Rahul Kul.
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