Navi Mumbai: The 2nd All India State Water Ministers Conference 2025 – India @ 2047: A Water Secure Nation, currently being held in Udaipur, Rajasthan, witnessed an impactful presentation by Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde. He was specially invited to present on the topic "Sustainable and Efficient Use of Water in Coastal Cities: Case Study of Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation."
In the presence of Union Minister for Jal Shakti, C.R. Patil, water ministers from various states, secretaries of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, and other dignitaries, Dr. Shinde delivered an insightful presentation on Navi Mumbai’s highly efficient water distribution system and the crucial role of holding ponds in flood prevention. This opportunity to showcase Navi Mumbai’s exemplary water management at the national level is a significant recognition for the city.
Dr. Shinde elaborated on Navi Mumbai’s unique planning since its inception, detailing its urban planning strategies and future vision. Highlighting the Morbe Dam, a key source of water for the city, he explained how advanced Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) technology has been integrated into the system for effective water management. He emphasized NMMC’s commitment to implementing a 24x7 water supply, beginning with a pilot project in the Belapur division, and how e-Governance is being leveraged in water distribution, said a statement released by NMMC on Wednesday.
The Commissioner also outlined NMMC’s sewage treatment and wastewater management initiatives, including the use of SCADA systems in sewage management and efforts to encourage citizens to use water judiciously. He provided details on NMMC’s state-of-the-art sewage treatment plants and tertiary treatment facilities, which supply recycled water to industries. This treated water is also utilized for parks, construction, RMC plants, residential societies (for non-drinking purposes), and washing NMMT buses, thereby conserving potable water.
Additionally, Dr. Shinde explained the Dutch-style holding pond system designed by CIDCO during the city's development. He emphasized how these ponds play a crucial role in flood control, especially during monsoons and high tides. A short film illustrating the functionality of these holding ponds was also showcased during the presentation.
With its coastal characteristics, Navi Mumbai has adopted a highly efficient and sustainable water management strategy. The recognition at this national platform for water conservation, wastewater recycling, and the use of holding ponds is a prestigious honour for NMMC, the statement added. NMMC Additional City Engineer, Arvind Shinde, was also present at the conference.
