Gangapur dam- major source of water for Nashik city
Nashik : In a significant step towards strengthening the city’s water security ahead of the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) has initiated the tender process to appoint an agency to remove rock formations blocking access to nearly 600 million cubic feet (mcft) of water in the dead storage of Gangapur dam. The project involves excavating a 590-metre trench and removing a massive rock formation that prevents the dead-storage water from reaching the jackwell, from where the NMC draws raw water for treatment and distribution. The project is estimated to cost Rs 9.82 crore. Officials said the additional 600 mcft of water could serve as a vital reserve during peak summer months and periods of exceptionally high demand. Gangapur dam remains Nashik’s primary water source, accounting for nearly 80% of the city’s supply. At present, the NMC supplies around 20 mcft of water daily, including nearly 15 mcft from Gangapur dam and about 5 mcft from the other two reservoirs.
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NMC officials said the work is expected to be completed within six months, enabling the civic body to tap the additional reserve whenever required. Once made accessible, the dead storage is expected to meet the city’s water requirement for nearly a month. The remaining requirement is met from Mukane and Darna dams. Download the TOI App.
The last date for submitting bids is Sept 21, while a pre-bid meeting is scheduled for Sept 3 to address queries from prospective bidders. The bids will be opened on Sept 22. “If the tender process is completed and the work order is issued by Oct 15, the project is expected to be completed by the end of March.
The selected agency will have to execute the work within six months from the date of issuance of the work order,” NMC officials said. The move assumes significance as Nashik prepares to host the Simhastha Kumbh Mela next year, with three major Amrit Snans scheduled in August and September. Water demand is expected to surge with the influx of pilgrims, sadhus and visitors. Civic officials believe the project will provide a crucial buffer against shortages and help ensure adequate water supply for residents and devotees during the mega religious congregation.
The civic body floated the tender on Thursday.