Work on 108 crore saddle-dam in Igatpuri begins after delays

Nashik: After facing delays since its approval in 2021, construction has finally begun on the Rs108-crore saddle dam project in Igatpuri taluka.
This ambitious project seeks to bridge the gap between Upper Vaitarna and Mukne dams — ultimately diverting 15.5 TMC of water to the water-scarce Godavari basin. This will significantly benefit the regions of Nashik, Ahilyanagar, and Chhatrapati Sambhajingar.
Rajesh Gowardhane, superintendent engineer of Nashik, said, "A natural ridge acts as a divide, channeling water from Upper Vaitarna dam westward within Maharashtra, while Mukne dam's water flows eastward. The current work involves connecting the backwater areas of these two dams by installing a pair of gates across this ridge."
Manoj Dhokchaule, executive engineer, emphasized the transformative impact on Mukne dam's water storage, stating the gates would "phenomenally increase water storage probability to 100%. The officials further said the implemented control system would strategically redirect surplus water from the Upper Vaitarna dam towards the Godavari basin.
"Upon completion, the region will get 1 TMC of stored water for usage, alongside additional water during monsoons, benefiting Jayakwadi dam through the Godavari river," Dhokchaule said.
The project was first sanctioned by state govt in 2012 for diversion of 1 TMC of water, followed by nod for 16.5 TMC in 2021. Despite receiving work orders in 2022, the project faced delays owing to opposition from the farmers. "With the help of elected representatives, the WRD officials met the farmers and persuaded them to agree for the construction of the gates," an official said.