In a significant move to address the pressing water crisis in the Vasai-Virar region, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has finally initiated the Surya Regional Water Supply Project, delivering a daily supply of 185 million liters of water. This development marks a crucial step in tackling the longstanding water scarcity issues faced by the residents of Vasai-Virar and the Mira-Bhayander municipal areas.
The water scarcity problem in Vasai-Virar and Mira-Bhayander has been a cause for concern, prompting the MMRDA to take action through the Surya Regional Water Supply Project. The project, with a total expenditure of ₹1325.78 crores, was approved in 2017 and aimed to provide a substantial daily water supply to these areas. However, due to various reasons, the project faced delays, with the completion expected earlier.
The first phase of the project, which involved delivering 185 million liters of water daily to Vasai-Virar, was successfully completed in June 2023. Following the completion of this crucial phase, the MMRDA had planned to distribute water to households in Vasai-Virar, reaching every nook and corner of the region. Unfortunately, the inauguration and implementation of the first phase were delayed, and the water supply relief could not be realized as initially anticipated.
Efforts were made to schedule the inauguration by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, but due to unforeseen circumstances, the event was postponed, leaving the first phase of the project hanging in limbo. It was only in October that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s office took charge, planning to allocate two possible dates for the inauguration. Regrettably, the Prime Minister’s visit was canceled, leaving the residents of Vasai-Virar in a state of uncertainty.
Despite the setbacks, the MMRDA decided to start water distribution under the Surya Project from Diwali (November 11). This move was undertaken independently of the formal inauguration, emphasizing the urgency to address the water needs of the region.
The completion of the first phase of the Surya Regional Water Supply Project has not only brought relief to Vasai-Virar residents but has also raised concerns and frustrations. The initial delay in inaugurating the project and the subsequent decision to distribute water without a formal ceremony left many residents dissatisfied.
Chief Minister Shinde, realizing the gravity of the situation, directed that water distribution should not be dependent on the inauguration ceremony. This directive came as a response to the persistent demand from the residents for an immediate solution to the water crisis. Consequently, the MMRDA initiated the water distribution process, providing a much-needed respite to the people of Vasai-Virar.
In conclusion, the Surya Regional Water Supply Project’s first phase has finally been executed, delivering 185 million liters of water daily to Vasai-Virar. Despite the challenges and delays faced along the way, the MMRDA’s decision to prioritize the well-being of the residents by starting water distribution is a step in the right direction. As the region begins to receive the essential resource, hopes are high for a sustained and efficient water supply in the coming days, bringing an end to the prolonged water scarcity woes.
