CIDCO marked a Achieves significant milestone on December 29, 2025, with the first tunnel breakthrough at Shaft-4 of the Hetawane Water Supply Scheme in Wahal village. This achievement, under Water Tunnel Package-1 executed by Afcons Infrastructure, includes the construction of an 8.7 km treated water tunnel, of which 5.52 km has been completed. The scheme aims to meet the increasing water demand of Navi Mumbai’s urban and industrial areas. It involves building a 13.25 km raw water tunnel and a 15.4 km treated water tunnel, which will enhance water supply capacity from 120 million liters per day to 270 million liters per day, ensuring long-term water security.
Industrial Development Corporation
Additionally, Afcons Infrastructure set a national record by tunneling 777 meters in a single month using its tunnel boring machine, Flamingo, reflecting significant progress in critical water infrastructure for Navi Mumbai’s growth The City and Industrial Development Corporation of Maharashtra (CIDCO) has achieved a significant engineering milestone with the successful first tunnel breakthrough at Hetawane, reinforcing its role as a key driver of large-scale urban and transport infrastructure in the state. This achievement represents a critical stage in tunnel construction, indicating that excavation from both ends has met precisely as planned.
Such breakthroughs are not merely symbolic but demonstrate technical accuracy, coordination, and adherence to stringent construction standards in complex geological conditions The Hetawane tunnel project forms part of CIDCO’s broader strategy to enhance connectivity across emerging urban nodes and industrial zones in Maharashtra. As urban expansion accelerates around Navi Mumbai and surrounding regions, the need for efficient transport corridors has become increasingly important. The tunnel is designed to reduce travel time, ease congestion on existing road networks, and support seamless movement of people and goods.
Ensure Safety And Structural Integrity
From an engineering perspective, the first tunnel breakthrough is among the most challenging phases of underground construction. It requires advanced surveying, precise alignment, and continuous monitoring to ensure safety and structural integrity. CIDCO’s success at Hetawane highlights its ability to manage technically demanding projects while maintaining timelines consistently focused on adopting modern construction technologies and best practices to minimize risk and environmental impact.
The Hetawane tunnel also plays a strategic role in supporting Maharashtra’s growing logistics and industrial ecosystem. Improved road connectivity helps industrial clusters operate more efficiently by reducing transportation bottlenecks. This is particularly relevant in regions witnessing increased investment in manufacturing, warehousing, and development. Enhanced infrastructure complements national-level initiatives promoted by agencies such as the National Highways Authority of India Urban planners view the Hetawane project as more than a standalone tunnel. It is part of a wider network designed to support sustainable.
Urban Transport Planning CIDCO’s
Urban growth By diverting traffic away from densely populated areas and creating faster alternative routes, such infrastructure helps reduce emissions, improve road safety, and enhance quality of life. These objectives align with smart city principles and integrated urban transport (India) planning CIDCO’s achievement also underscores the importance of public sector expertise in executing large infrastructure projects. As a state-owned planning authority, CIDCO has been instrumental in shaping Navi Mumbai and surrounding regions through planned development. The Hetawane tunnel breakthrough demonstrates how public institutions can deliver complex.
Projects efficiently when supported by strong governance frameworks and experienced technical teams. Similar infrastructure milestones across Maharashtra have been highlighted in sectoral analyses available at In addition to engineering and economic benefits, the project has implications for regional mobility. Improved connectivity facilitates easier access to employment hubs, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. This can help balance urban growth by making peripheral regions more accessible and attractive for development. As transport infrastructure expands, it also encourages private investment in housing and commercial projects, creating a multiplier effect across the local economy.
Tunnel Development CIDCO’s Approach
The successful breakthrough at Hetawane also reflects careful coordination between planners, contractors, and regulatory authorities. Environmental clearances, safety compliance, and geological assessments form a crucial part of tunnel development. CIDCO’s approach demonstrates how infrastructure projects can progress responsibly while adhering to regulatory norms The completion of subsequent phases of the Hetawane tunnel is expected to further strengthen regional connectivity. As excavation progresses toward finishing works, including lining, ventilation, and safety systems, the project will move closer to operational readiness.
Each completed phase brings Maharashtra a step closer to achieving its long-term vision of integrated, resilient, and future-ready infrastructure CIDCO’s first tunnel breakthrough at Hetawane is a landmark moment in Maharashtra’s infrastructure journey. It highlights technical (India) excellence, strategic planning, and the transformative impact of well-executed public projects. As the state continues to invest in connectivity and urban development, achievements like this serve as a reminder of how infrastructure can drive economic growth, improve mobility, and shape sustainable cities for the future.
Q1. What is the Hetawane project?
It is a key infrastructure tunnel being developed by CIDCO to improve regional connectivity.
Q2. Why is the first breakthrough important?
It marks the successful completion of a major engineering phase.
Q3. Who is executing the project?
CIDCO is the nodal agency overseeing execution and planning.
Q4. How will the project benefit Maharashtra?
It will improve transport efficiency and support urban expansion.
Q5. When is the project expected to be completed?
Completion is planned in phases as per CIDCO’s infrastructure roadmap.
