Pune: Pavana Direct Pipeline Project Will Proceed Only With Farmers’ Consent, Says CM Devendra Fadnavis
Pune: Pavana Direct Pipeline Project Will Proceed Only With Farmers’ Consent, Says CM Devendra Fadnavis
Pimpri Chinchwad, July 4, 2026: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has assured that the proposed Pawna Direct Parallel Water Pipeline Project will be implemented only with the consent of farmers through dialogue, trust and mutual understanding, while safeguarding their interests.
Chairing a high-level meeting at the Vidhan Bhavan on the project, Fadnavis said the government would fully respect the sentiments and opinions of farmers before taking any decision. He emphasised that a permanent solution would be achieved through extensive discussions involving farmers, local public representatives and all concerned government departments.
The meeting was attended by Water Resources Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, MP Shrirang Barne, MLAs Anna Bansode, Mahesh Landge, Sanjay (Bala) Bhegade, Uma Khapre and Amit Gorkhe, along with senior officials of the Urban Development Department, Water Resources Department and the Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC).
Fadnavis said rapid urbanisation and population growth across Maharashtra demand long-term water planning to prevent future water shortages. He noted that the Pawna Direct Water Pipeline Project is crucial for ensuring Pimpri Chinchwad’s future water security and that the government is prepared to hold discussions with farmers to address their concerns. He also urged local elected representatives to actively participate in the dialogue and ensure that assurances made to farmers are fulfilled without delay.
The Chief Minister stressed that development projects should move forward by earning public confidence rather than facing confrontation. He said coordinated efforts by elected representatives, political parties, government departments and local citizens are essential for sustainable development while protecting farmers’ interests.
Fadnavis also directed officials to prepare a comprehensive water management plan for the entire Pune Metropolitan Region up to 2050. The plan should account for population growth, urbanisation and industrial expansion while ensuring adequate drinking water supply through efficient utilisation of existing water resources and development of new sources.
He further instructed officials to prioritise wastewater treatment and reuse, especially for industrial, commercial, construction and landscaping purposes, to reduce pressure on potable water resources.
During the meeting, PCMC Commissioner Dr. Vijay Suryawanshi made a detailed presentation on the project. According to the civic administration, the proposed pipeline will transport raw water directly from Pawna Dam to the Nigdi Water Treatment Plant, ensuring a reliable and contamination-free water supply.
At present, Pimpri Chinchwad, with a population of around 3.8 million, receives approximately 650 MLD of water daily, including 520 MLD from the Pawna River, 100 MLD from the Indrayani River and 30 MLD through MIDC.
While the current water demand stands at about 655 MLD, projections indicate that demand could rise to 949 MLD by 2031, 1,638 MLD by 2041 and 2,328 MLD by 2051 as the city’s population continues to grow. Officials said the proposed project is vital to ensuring a sustainable, safe and future-ready water supply for the city.
