Efforts to combat persistent drought conditions in Nashik’s Sinnar taluka have gained momentum with an ambitious initiative to convert 20 kilometers of British-era canals along the Dev River into closed underground pipes. Spearheaded by MLA Dr Manikrao Kokate, the project has received approval for a fund worth ₹13.5 crore from the Irrigation Department.
The primary objective of this initiative is to augment the water-carrying capacity, providing significant benefits to approximately 940 hectares of the surrounding areas. By transforming existing canals into underground pipes, the project aims to expand irrigation in the Sinnar taluka, addressing the challenges posed by a deficit of rainfall averaging below 300 millimeters in the eastern region.
Challenges and Solutions: Persistent drought conditions in Sinnar taluka have hindered new canal construction due to a stalled Godavari-Marathwada canal project by the Godavari River Development Corporation. The proposed project seeks to lay underground pipelines covering 35 kilometers from KundeWadi to Musalgav and 25 kilometers from Khopdi to Mirgav. These pipelines will divert 200 DMC of surplus water to drought-prone areas, filling up reservoirs along the way.
Comprehensive Water Supply Plan: The project includes the construction of a 6-kilometer pipeline from Gagan Bandhara to Bodake Vashti and a 1.5-kilometer pipeline from Mhalungi Nadi to Tembhurwadi. These pipelines are designed to facilitate the transportation of 12 TMC of water annually and irrigate 100 hectares, respectively.
Impact on Villages: The comprehensive plan ensures water supply to villages including Vadgav Sinnar, Sonare, Atkavade, Bhatwadi, Manegaon, Patole, Ramnagar, Dhondwirnagar, Lonnarwadi, and more. The project, with a budget of ₹13.5 crore, is set to revolutionize irrigation practices in the region and bring relief to water-scarce areas.
