India, Dec. 27 -- Work on the ambitious, 34-kilometre-long, underground tunnel connecting Khadakwasla Dam to Phursungi is likely to commence by April 2025 as the work order for the project has been handed over to a private contractor. The project aims to address longstanding issues related to water loss and pollution caused by rapid urbanisation and encroachments along the existing canal system. It is expected to significantly enhance water supply for irrigation and drinking purposes in the Pune region.

Kumar Patil, superintendent engineer of the Khadakwasla irrigation division under the water resources department, confirmed that the work order for the Khadakwasla-Phursungi tunnel project has been handed over to the contractor. "The proc...