India, May 13 -- The underground tunnel project between Khadakwasla and Phursungi-aimed at preventing water leakage-remains stalled as it awaits clearance from the environment department, said officials.

The canal is intended to replace the ageing New Right Bank Mutha Canal, which currently supplies irrigation and drinking water from the Khadakwasla chain project to Pune city and parts of Indapur, Daund, Baramati, and Haveli talukas.

The existing canal, which passes through densely populated areas of Pune, suffers from significant water leakage due to years of neglect and lack of maintenance. Encroachments along the canal route have also added to the challenges.

Yogesh Sawant, executive engineer of the Khadakwasla irrigation division, ...